Charging New Batteries w/ EZGO Total Charge

[SteveZ]

Concerned about over charging my new batteries. How long should the intial charge take charging with an old 1987 EZGO Total Charge (timer charger)? I don't think the model I have has any auto shut off. Don't want to cook brand new batteries.

Been on the charger now for about 3 hours and amp meter is currently reading about 4 amps (down from 22 intially).

Going to bed and have it set for about 6 more hours... think its too much?

I am a cart newbie and don't want to cook my new Crown's.

[scottyb]

Initial charge should be 12 -14hours

[SteveZ]

Thanks Scotty! I will sleep much better now.

[scottyb]

This is sorta harder to do with the MANUAL charger. I hope you have a DVM. drain the pack to 75%, no less. recharge them 10 hours, then 75% drain and 9hours, then 75% and 8 hours .... then let it sit for 12 hours and read the pack voltage it should be about 90% .... Read all you can about proper battery break in. New batts take up to 20 cycles to reach full capacity ....... hope this helps



NEW BATTERIES?
http://www.buggiesgonewild.com/elect...attery+Breakin

[scottyb]

NEW BATTERY BREAK-IN PROCEDURE:
Following proper break-in procedure can increase the strength and the useful life span of your new batteries. New batteries are initially about 75% of their full strength. The following procedure will insure they reach their full potential.
The 1st 10 to 20 complete charge/discharge cycles are critical to insure they reach 100%. New batteries should be charged before use and thereafter as follows:
Plug the charger in and leave it alone until charger shuts off by itself. Then drive to discharge the batteries to 75% battery pack capacity (see chart) Plug the cart back in and repeat the charge cycle.......It is very important you let it charge until it is completely done. Repeat this for the first 10 - 20 cycles......by the 12th cycle you will notice a difference in power, speed, and run-time.........I have never had a customer say they have not noticed the increase.
Most importantly, NEVER run the battery pack down below 50% of capacity throughout their entire life. Never leave the batteries in a state of discharge for extended periods of time. Recharge the pack once a week if the cart is sitting idle or in storage. And when in doubt, recharge it.
During the break-in procedure, keep an eye on the water levels. T can take 12 hours or more for the 1st few Charging times. These extended charge cycles may evaporate some of the water. ( use distilled water only )
As the batteries break in you will notice the charge time gets shorter. Eventually going from 12 to 5-6 hours per recharge.
ONCE A MONTH:
Routine maintenance is the 2nd most important thing to insure you get the most use out of your new battery pack. It is critical that you get into a routine of spending 10 - 15 minutes a month to keep the cable connections clean and check the water levels. Proper water level is critical. Dry batteries die quickly.
Keep the Distilled Water level up to the bottom of the fill hole sleeve or a half inch above the lead plates. Do not fill to the top.
Use a hard nylon brush to remove any visible corrosion. Carefully check that all of the cable connections are tight. Loose connections cause arching which will melt the soft lead terminals. Spray-on Battery Terminal Protector is available from the auto parts store and greatly reduces corrosive build up.
I hope this helps you get the most use possible out of your battery investment.

[SteveZ]

Thanks Scotty wasn't aware the break in was that critical.
Think I will be picking up a Dig Volt Meter soon....

[scottyb]

Yep. A good start is critical and then maintenance ...... you do not want to fall short on either one at today's battery replacement costs .......... and I know, I sell batteries