Golf cart charger type to buy

[MPWELLS12]

Hey guys. Bought a 2017 club car precedent with no obc. Did not come with a charger. Should I buy the eric charger which is oem or is there a better charger to buy. Also will buy new batteries with it. Thanks

[mgray70]

E.R.I.C is the OEM. Lester Summit 2 would be a better replacement in opinion.

[inmanlanier]

I have each - the Summit II ('88 CC DS - Trojan 105s) and the OEM (Eric made by OmegaQ in Canada). Both appear to be very similar in function. I'd go with whichever is less cost - but before buying the Eric I'd make sure I got the battery algorithm for your batteries. I think Lester has a plethora of charging algorithms and some fancy features that you may prefer.
If you don't use the Eric - definitely get the Summit II. The Eric updates algorithms by USB, the Summit II by bluetooth (need an app with your phone).

[SoFLCart]

Originally Posted by inmanlanier

I have each - the Summit II ('88 CC DS - Trojan 105s) and the OEM (Eric made by OmegaQ in Canada). Both appear to be very similar in function. I'd go with whichever is less cost - but before buying the Eric I'd make sure I got the battery algorithm for your batteries. I think Lester has a plethora of charging algorithms and some fancy features that you may prefer.
If you don't use the Eric - definitely get the Summit II. The Eric updates algorithms by USB, the Summit II by bluetooth (need an app with your phone).

What is the purpose of updating charging algorithms?

[going4speed]

Like firmware for other devices, technology is always changing. At times manufacturers may find more efficient ways to utilize the technology they put into the device. Also global knowledge changes as to methods that are effective and efficient in charging. The flip side, well not really a flip, is that if you decide to change your battery chemistry in the future, you will not need a new charger.

[scottyb]

Originally Posted by SoFLCart

What is the purpose of updating charging algorithms?

Charge algorithms are battery specific. Using a charge algorithm written for your specific make and model battery can improve performance and maximize the useful life of the battery.
Old chargers used a generic or general algorithm which did not take into account the needs of various makes and capacity batteries. It was common for a single charger to be overcharging one brand and undercharging others.

[Fairtax4me]

Originally Posted by SoFLCart

What is the purpose of updating charging algorithms?

Batteries are not all built the same, and different brands like to be charged differently. The correct algorithm varies depending on plate structure, Amp Hour capacity, design voltage, and several other factors.

Battery manufacturers specify the charge rates and voltage limits that their batteries should be charged for best charging. Using the wrong algorithm can cause overcharging, or undercharging of the pack, which will ultimately result in loss of capacity and damage to the battery.

There are some universal algorithms that are “good enough” to work with most batteries, but you may not get full life expectancy or capacity from the pack. Using the algorithm designed for your batteries makes them last longer, and perform better overall.

[MPWELLS12]

Thanks guys. Have u heard anything on the modz charger.

[mgray70]

Originally Posted by MPWELLS12

Thanks guys. Have u heard anything on the modz charger.

I've heard some good things, but I have no personal experience myself.

[R&TBabich]

Originally Posted by MPWELLS12

.... Have u heard anything on the modz charger.

I have 2 of of the Modz Max48 chargers - one for testing/backup and the other for mounting on-board.
Used both for about 6 months each and have had no issues.
I think they are a "generic" smart charger - no option to change charge algorithms.