WARNING! – ALWAYS WEAR A FACE SHIELD, RUBBER
GLOVES AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING WHEN WORKING ON BATTERIES
WATERING - PERIODICALLY CHECK THE LEVEL IN
EVERY CELL AND FILL THE BATTERIES TO THE CORRECT LEVEL AS REQUIRED (see
picture below). As batteries age the frequency will increase.
The use of a battery-watering gun will assist in accurately completing
this task. Water should be added, if needed, after the charging cycle has
been completed unless the tops of the plates are exposed. In that case,
water should be added before charging.
Be sure that a water suitable for watering batteries (colorless, odorless,
tasteless and suitable for drinking), preferably distilled water, is utilized.
If you have any doubts as the suitability of the water, have it tested
and add and appropriate water line filter, if required.
It is very important that all battery cells be maintained at a consistent
level being especially careful not to overfil in order to obtain good battery
life and minimize corrosion to the electrical system and vehicle.
CLEANING – MONTHLY WASH THE BATTERY TOPS WITH
A SOLUTION OF ¼ CUP (60ml) BAKING SODA TO 1 ½ GALLONS (6
liter) OF CLEAR WATER.
After watering, spray the tops and sides of the batteries, the battery
wiring, and battery racks with the baking soda solution. Let the solution
stand for at least 5 minutes to allow the neutralizing action to take place.
If any evidence of corrosion is visible (green powdered foam), spray
again with baking soda and let the solution stand for at least 5 minutes
before rinsing; repeat until all corrosion is removed.
Deposits on battery tops must be removed because they are conductive
and cause self-discharge of the battery. Scrub the battery tops with a
bristle brush soaked in the baking soda solution. Rinse with clear water.
Never wash batteries without first neutralizing the entire battery
area with a baking soda solution.
In addition to good maintenance, battery life can be extended by proper
fleet rotation and maintaining the recommended tire inflation. We also
suggest keeping maintenance records of all work performed.
CHARGING – DAILY RECHARGE THE BATTERIES AFTER
USE. Golf car batteries should be charged between rounds if possible. All
chargers should be periodically inspected to insure proper operation.
Before charging batteries, inspect all terminals for frayed conductors
and loose or damaged connectors. Inspect all terminals to assure that they
are both clean (corrosion free) and securely fastened to battery posts.
It is unlikely that a fully charged battery will freeze, except
in the most extreme cold conditions.
In the "off season" batteries should be fully charged, disconnected
from the charger and stored in an unheated covered area. Check the batteries
during the "off season" at (30 day) intervals, recharge and disconnect
charger after charging. DO NOT leave the charger connected to the
vehicle during "off season" storage.
Cars equipped with the PDS/DCS feature MUST be stored with the
tow/maintenance switch in the "tow/maintenance" position.
Information supplied by E-Z-Go Division of Textron.
