8 volt golf cart batteries maintaince is an important part of ensuring that your electric golf cart runs properly. In general, you will find that you need to replace the batteries every 4-5 years. However, apart from that, you may find it difficult to recognize when it is time to make the change.
Here are some signs to keep an eye out for when it’s time for battery replacement:
• Long Charge Times
Like all other rechargeable batteries, constantly charging and using your 8 volt golf cart batteries will take a toll on the battery life. The more utilized the battery is, the longer your cart will take to charge fully. This is because your charger will work to provide maximum power regardless of the age of the battery, and the more the battery is used, the longer it will take the battery to accept that power.
• Short Range
Electric golf carts have lesser range than gas carts. However, they should still afford you several miles before needing to be re-charged. If you notice that your cart is failing you early on in the course, especially within the first nine holes, it is probably time to replace your batteries.
• Visual Evidence
8-volt golf cart batteries that are reaching the end of their lifespan will show visual signs of this fact. They may bulge and expand, and may even display cracks. Other signs include corrosion on the top and/or along the sides of the batteries.
• No Immediate Acceleration
Regardless of whether you have a gas or an electric cart when you start it, it should be able to accelerate immediately. However, the older and more used your batteries, the longer your cart will take to accelerate and reach top speeds. If you find that you’re getting the power you’re used to from your cart, it is likely that it is time to replace your batteries.
• Low Voltage
One of the best ways to determine whether you need to replace your batteries is to check the voltage. If a voltage test reveals that the voltage is under 50, your 8 volt golf cart batteries are fully worn out and need to replaced. You can check quickly and easily by using a voltmeter.
• Trouble Going Up An Incline
If your batteries are failing, you may notice that your cart has difficulty going up hills. This will be particularly obvious if you have more than one person in your cart. This will be extremely noticeable, and not subtle at all.
• No Support for Accessories
Most people have a level of customization to their golf carts, in the form of accessories. These range from radios to additional lights and more. However, if your batteries are close to the end of their lifespan, you may find that these accessories will not work. This is because the batteries are expending most of their energy in keeping the cart going, and have no extra left for the accessories.
• Leakage
As batteries age, they are more susceptible to leaking. However, once the battery acid actually starts to leak, it is one of the most obvious signs available that it is time to change your batteries. Make sure to check the leak, as there is a possibility that the fluid leaking out maybe something other than acid. However, even if the fluid is something else, it is still an indication that you should get your batteries checked immediately.
Final Thoughts
If you suspect that it is time to replace your 8 volt golf cart batteries, contact us immediately. We will guide you through the next steps so that you can get your cart back to top shape as soon as possible.
If you have any concerns regarding your golf cart batteries or have any other questions regarding your cart, contact Carts & Parts at (937) 459-8891 today!
