2001 Club Car DS Problem going uphill

[stodgygent]

I have a 2001 DS that last year slowed quite a bit going uphill (We live in a relatively flat area). This year I initially thought the tires were slipping on the grass, but when I go up an incline such as my driveway I get the same sensation. The problem seems to be getting worse. Driving through some soggy /wet ground today it about stalled.

Where do I begin? Is there a step-by-step troubleshooting guide somewhere?

[joesam]

Progressively slowing down over time is an almost sure sign of batteries on their last legs. Using a digital voltmeter, take a reading on your total pack voltage after it has been charged, and then left sitting unplugged for about 8 hours - and advise what voltage you are seeing.

[jakesnake27]

to BGW

Also, a load test would be good to perform. Connect your DVM to the entire pack, and while attempting to drive up a hill, see how low the voltage drops.

[stodgygent]

Okay, I've been charging for over 16 hours and, according to the manual (just downloaded), the charger should turn off automatically. It is at 4 amps.

... Now, I'm feeling rather embarrassed. I got more and more curious, so I just checked the age of the batteries. I was thinking they were 4 yrs old or so, but they were purchased in 2008 (my Dad owned it back then).

So I'm thinking I am in need of batteries, unless there are any tricks to squeeze another summer out of these.

[scottyb]

8 yr old batteries! I think you already squeezed a couple of extra summers out of them Of course you could charge and ride charge and ride. I don't know how far you will get or where it will end. My Aunt once got 9 yrs from a set of batteries on a low use cart.

[stodgygent]

Yep, we live in a flat area, so I guess I get away with more than usual.

Good places to buy batteries?