What else besides batteries would cause loss of power?

[BigDaddyCooper]

I just purchased a 1983 36v Club Car and the previous owner is not sure on the age of the batteries. He told me after a charge, it would only run about 20 minutes.

I got it home, charged the batteries, and they all test 6.2v or better, replaced cables (had ALOT of corrosion and wear) w/standard 6 gage cable, cleaned terminal and got good contact. I then drove the cart which seem to have good power, until about 5-10 minutes into the ride it started to slow down. So, I retested the batteries, and all 6 are still at 5.85v or better.

My question is, "Is there anything else that might cause it to act like the batteries are drained, since the batteries seem to hold a decent charge"?

This is my first Golf Cart project, and I am sure I have lots to learn!

[scottyb]

Welcome BigDaddy,
You are describing typical old battery failure.
Attach the meter to the pack and drive. See how low the voltage drops under load.
Scottyb

[BigDaddyCooper]

Thanks for the Welcome!

I will try that out. I guess I am in "old battery" denial after pricing new ones....WOW!

Thanks again.

[scottyb]

I hear you. But if you depreciate the investment over 5 years of service it comes out to pennies a day

[rib33024]

Welcome to BGW


Yeah the price looks bad, but when you break it down, it's only a $ 125 a year to run the cart, that's not much, if you take good care of the batteries you will get 5 years of use out of them

[jakesnake27]

Originally Posted by rib33024

Welcome to BGW


Yeah the price looks bad, but when you break it down, it's only a $ 125 a year to run the cart, that's not much, if you take good care of the batteries you will get 5 years of use out of them

Plus electricity usage (charging)...