Time for new batteries: Do I upgrade from 36 to 48??

The Popo

Hello everyone. New to the site and the golf cart world. A little background first. I recently purchased a 1984 Club Car DS 36v from a co-worker. The cart is in not so great shape but it works and is a bases for future modes, such as wheels, lift, stereo ect. The cart needs some maintanance such as batteries, fiberglass work (very minor), repaint and the battery supports need replacing.

Now the question. After a week of fiddling with the batteries, which are from 2004, I figured I have to six new ones. My first thought was, do I sell it and buy a new one with new batteries or just buy the batteries. In doing new batteries do I upgrade to the 48v and if so what to i really need to do so? I'm not looking to spend a whole lot but I also don't want to throw money away. Any input would be appriciated.

BGW

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scottyb

Welcome to BGW, Popo!
You question is not as simple as it looks. first of all you have to understand how your system achieves speed control and how modern carts control speed. Then you need to understand what needs to be replaced to install a modern controller system. and lastly you need to figure out if you even need to upgrade or just repair your current system. The info you seek is all here ... hundreds of pages of it, actually... let us know if we can help and enjoy the search

Andy4639

Ok,
if you decide to upgrade to 48 volts you will need to buy certain things to do this. These prices are all Ball park figures so it maybe more or less depending on who you buy from.

1. Batteries 48 volts = $600.00
2. controller that handles 48 volts = $400.00
3. Charger that will charge 48 volts= $300.00
4. Solenoid to handle 48 volts = $45.00

If you stay with 36 and get it in top condition then all you need is Batteries.

OLD MEC

I like upgrading the older carts as they will run circles around many later model carts, BUT like every one says it take some knowledge and money so you be the judge?
ANDY4639 is right in the ball park ( some mods not listed conversion of V Glide unit $80.00 or PB-6 unit $80.00 and some conversion of F&R control $10.00, new HD cables throughout depending on purchased or made yourself $125.00-$50.00 ) so if you feel the expense is within reason and you feel that with forums help the conversion can be done GO FOR IT?
NOTE BY ALL MEANS USE YOUR 36 volt motor as on 48 volts its like a super charged motor and works just fine if in good condition.