Chargers

[erict]

I currently have a PowerDrive2 charger. Is there a better charger or what charger would you recommend? Stock 05 Precedent.

[jakesnake27]

The Lester Summit II is the best charger on the market right now. It is a high efficiency, Bluetooth capable charger with a maintenance/float mode. Several of the site sponsors carry it.

[NoleFan4Ever]

Bump for the Summit II

[erict]

Been doing some reading since I/we have time during this time. So.......


Does this charger bypass the OBC? Would this do a better job charging then my PowerDrive2 charger?


A quick history of my cart.
I bought my cart in 2012. It sat in storage for 7 years unused. So basically brand new. Only thing done was the batteries were periodically charged but of course needed batteries when I bought it. I replaced the Trojans with US batteries. I have been reading that US batteries use a different charge scenario. My current charger seemed to charge them fine and got 7 years from the pack. I didn't use my cart last year and didn't replace the batteries till this year. I now have a set of Crown batteries and wonder how my current charger will do. So it got me thinking is there a better charger out there or is my PowerDrive just fine?

[jakesnake27]

In all reality if your PD2 and OBC are working fine, I’d save the money and leave them alone.

[Dragracer_Art]

I've heard great things about the Summit II by Lester... and If I have to buy another new one, that would be my first choice.

That said... I have been bypassing the factory OBC's and using DPI chargers for several years.
The DPI chargers have specific charging algorithms for different brand batteries. I know some here hate the DPI stuff... but there was a time when it's what everyone (old school) here recommended.

[teecro]

Originally Posted by Dragracer_Art

I've heard great things about the Summit II by Lester... and If I have to buy another new one, that would be my first choice.

That said... I have been bypassing the factory OBC's and using DPI chargers for several years.
The DPI chargers have specific charging algorithms for different brand batteries. I know some here hate the DPI stuff... but there was a time when it's what everyone (old school) here recommended.

It kind of broke my heart when the DPI was no longer the favored charger as mine is not 6 years old and no way can I see replacing it...

[kgsc]

When dpi went to the gen 4 is when problems started. My gen 3s have been fine but the one gen 4 I have has been repaired 3 times and doesn’t float. My next one will probably be a summit

[Dragracer_Art]

Originally Posted by teecro

It kind of broke my heart when the DPI was no longer the favored charger as mine is not 6 years old and no way can I see replacing it...

My only gripe with DPI is when they went to a detachable DC power cord.
The connection end at the box is pure garbage. I will eventually hardwire mine.
DPI has acknowledged the issue. I saw a statement on their website offering free cord upgrade kit if anyone has issues with the new (failed) design. Just takes a phone call to initiate.

[Dragracer_Art]

Originally Posted by kgsc

When dpi went to the gen 4 is when problems started. My gen 3s have been fine but the one gen 4 I have has been repaired 3 times and doesn’t float. My next one will probably be a summit

What voltage should it float at ?

I've noticed mine seems to stay around 50-52v.

Maybe mine is not float charging anymore.

Maybe I spoke too soon on DPI.

Edit to add...

Was just reading on DPI website. Didnt see a float charge voltage listed... but did see that "float" charge means it just stops charging and will re-start after long periods of inactivity... so maybe I misunderstood float charge.
I always thought it meant a higher voltage and lower amps to prevent plate sulfating.