How to take care of Golf Cart Batteries

To keep your golf cart running smoothly, golf cart battery maintenance is a must. A maintenance schedule means more than just charging; batteries need to be checked for electrolyte levels, as well. The lead plates in batteries must be submerged in the correct amount of water at all times, and if the levels are not maintained regularly, the batteries may catch on fire.

Depending on how frequently you use your golf cart, a battery maintenance check may be a weekly or monthly routine. If a golf cart is used occasionally, then battery maintenance every 10-14 days may be adequate.

Most golf carts are powered by 4 to 6 lead-acid batteries located under the front seat. The acid from the batteries is poisonous and can cause severe burns; avoid contact with clothes and skin. Also, the acid is extremely corrosive so avoid spilling the acid on the body and chassis of the golf cart.

For safe and proper golf cart battery maintenance:

• Wear protective clothing, including goggles and acid proof gloves
• Take off all jewelry
• Work in a well ventilated area
• Do not smoke in the vicinity of battery maintenance
• Regular watering with distilled water is needed for golf cart batteries because the water evaporates. The water should be about 1/2 inch above the lead plates in the battery or to the level indicator below the fill cap. Add water after fully charging the battery. Do not overfill the battery.
• Only distilled, deionized or approved water should be added[1]
• Examine the batteries to make sure that they are free of cracks and check the container and the top of the battery. Battery connections should be clean, without dirt or any leaking fluid.
• Clean the battery tops with a water and baking soda solution. This neutralizes any acid that spills to help curb further corrosive damage. Make sure that when cleaning the battery tops no cleaning solution or foreign substances (dirt, grass, etc.) get into the battery. When the battery tops are sufficiently clean, rinse with distilled water and dry off with a cloth.
• Do not expose your lead plates to air
• Do not add acid to the batteries – ever
• Do not use solvents or sprays or other chemical solutions
• Make sure that the vent caps are secure.
• Replace damaged batteries immediately

If you don’t have a battery charge indicator on your cart, getting one installed is easily and inexpensive.

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your batteries, saving you money, and providing you with a reliable and efficient ride.

from rsccustomgolfcartsblog http://ift.tt/1hZgAgR