Do I need new batteries?

[jcourtney986]

I have Champion CPGC-110 batteries with a date of 5/06. I purchased a multimeter and get the following readings fully charged at rest.

Total charge: 39.2
Per battery: 5.43, 5.12, 5.24, 5.05, 5.20, 5.19

Then I drove it for about 4 miles and got the following at rest.

Total charge: 37.5
Per battery: 4.96, 5.91, 6.15, 4.82, 6.02, 4.98

Yes, the readings are in the same order so I'm not sure why some were higher the second time. No, I don't quite know how to do a load test, but I was told you get could pull it up to a wall and just give it a little gas and test again. I was also told that if I'm not getting 6+ at rest, then I need new bats.

Other fun facts: the cart is a rebuilt 2003 PDS with lift and I just installed a DCX 400 controller. And no, the batteries didn't last any longer pre-controller, but they seem to go even faster now.

And for the grand finale, what is your top pick for power? I'm still looking for a little more torque and speed. Life is not as important as I'm sure I'll be bored with it before they run out.

[scottyb]

Originally Posted by jcourtney986

I have Champion CPGC-110 batteries with a date of 5/06. I purchased a multimeter and get the following readings fully charged at rest.

Total charge: 39.2
Per battery: 5.43, 5.12, 5.24, 5.05, 5.20, 5.19

Then I drove it for about 4 miles and got the following at rest.

Total charge: 37.5
Per battery: 4.96, 5.91, 6.15, 4.82, 6.02, 4.98

Yes, the readings are in the same order so I'm not sure why some were higher the second time. No, I don't quite know how to do a load test, but I was told you get could pull it up to a wall and just give it a little gas and test again. I was also told that if I'm not getting 6+ at rest, then I need new bats.

Other fun facts: the cart is a rebuilt 2003 PDS with lift and I just installed a DCX 400 controller. And no, the batteries didn't last any longer pre-controller, but they seem to go even faster now.

And for the grand finale, what is your top pick for power? I'm still looking for a little more torque and speed. Life is not as important as I'm sure I'll be bored with it before they run out.

Do it again ..... I added up your readings and got 31.23 Starting voltage?

ANYWAY THE NUMBERS ARE TOO LOW. Looks like new battery time ....

[gatormeup]

i was thinking same thing, numbers do not add up!! if single readings are right, then time for new, if total is right??? dunno!!

[rusty1]

06 batteries shouldnt be bad have you kept DISTILLED water in them also have you checked your charger to insure it is charging correctly yes you can put it aginst a wall or tree and give it a little gas to load est the batteries just make sure the wall or tree will withstand the pressure on it

[dougmcp]

With readings like that, sounds like the battery in your meter is dead. Put a new 9volter in there and take the readings again then compare them against this chart

[jcourtney986]

Nice chart, thanks.

Yes, the total reading is from the positive and negative where the cables go to the controller so it is what is actually coming out of the complete system.

The individual batteries were tested by placing the probe on the meter to the base of the post for each battery. I thought it was low, but it seemed consistent. The tester is brand new. I did have it on the load setting for 6V. Maybe it was the wrong setting?

[scottyb]

What meter do you have? Model # and make? I set my meter on 200VDC when I check a pack and 20VDC when I read a battery...... You always want to set your meter higher than you expect your reading to be....

[mikesmotortoys]

Battery time - Buy Trojans...

[jcourtney986]

Yes, that first one is it. It did appear to be auto ranging. I'll try it again on the 20VDC.

I talked to the dealership that I bought it from, and he said he would do a load test if I would bring it out so I'll try to borrow a trailer and send my wife with the cart some time this week.

It seemed so easy to put it on 6v and see how each batter was performing. I was convinced that I needed new batteries, but maybe not?

[dougmcp]

Originally Posted by jcourtney986

Yes, that first one is it. It did appear to be auto ranging. I'll try it again on the 20VDC.

?? There is no 20v on your meter, it's auto-ranging. Use the setting that says "DCV". The "RED" section 1 click clockwise from "OFF".
I'm just guessing here but I'm not sure you have a grasp on what your meter does and think you may want to take a few minutes and read the instructions that came with your meter.
You are only trying to read voltage with that thing, nothing else. The load test is not for any battery larger than the batteries in your TV remote control.