Charging in run mode

[T11ravis]

So I did a quick search and found a couple old threads that were somewhat related but figured I'd ask anyway:
I've had my G29 for 5 days and just realized tonight that I'm supposed to charge it in tow mode.
What possible damage can occur besides frying the controller?

[sportcoupe]

I don't know anyone that puts their carts in tow prior to charging. The owners manual is being ultra conservative.

[Volt_Ampere]

I always charge mine in Run mode.

[smallblock450sl]

If you live in an area that has alot of lightning strikes......charge in tow mode. Had uncommon lightning (in our area) last year and took out 3 controllers because it hit the power line.

[cgtech]

There is a disadvantage to charging in tow mode that hasn't/probably wont be addressed by yamaha. If you have an energy meter from the factory, or have added one to the factory plug in the dash for an energy meter, it will be reset when the tow switch is turned off Regardless of wether the batteries were fully charged or not.

[sunking]

Someone correct me if I am wrong, but run/tow switch turns on/off power to the controller. If in run the controller is turned on and and using power. That is considered a parasitic or vampire load drawing power that need not be.

Now if you drive and charge the cart every day no big deal. But if your cart sets a few days, then you have a problem unless you have charger that has FLOAT capability. But even in Float you are paying for the power that is not doing anything except collecting dust.

[kev2504]

So far I have always charged mine in the tow mode. I believe in the tow mode if you have an energy surge for any reason it won't hurt the controller.

Not sure about the parasitic load from the controller when in the run mode. When you have it in the run mode you can hear the click from the controller. You can also hear it click if the key switch is on and you are sitting for a bit. I would assume there is some voltage draw.

[Volt_Ampere]

On my cart, the draw is minimal when the key is off. I never bother with Tow mode except when I wash it. I am sure that it's safer to leave it in Tow mode when not using it though.

[sunking]

Originally Posted by kev2504

So far I have always charged mine in the tow mode. I believe in the tow mode if you have an energy surge for any reason it won't hurt the controller.

Not sure about the parasitic load from the controller when in the run mode. When you have it in the run mode you can hear the click from the controller

What you are describing is a Parasitic Load. I do not doubt your belief; "possible damage could occur to controller if left in Run Mode while charging" That can only mean the Controller is Powered ON, and thus drawing current/power.

The Parasitic load is small but adds up real quick over days and weeks. So if your charger turns off after charging, and several days or weeks pass before you ride again; might get caught short and have to limp home. If your chargers Floats, then no problem.

[reinman88]

I'm not going to claim this is 100% accurate, but since I've gotten my cart last May, I've been caught short on power twice. The first time may be partially my fault for not understanding the lights and cutting my charge early each time. I stopped when the green light was flashing instead of waiting for it to go solid green. But the second time would have nothing to do with this.

What is common on both times is charging the cart and not using it or over 4 or 5 days only driving it maybe 1/4 mile. Then making a 2 mile run with a big hill to climb near the end. The hill is what got me both times.

Like I said I'm not claiming the controller is using a lot of power while it's sitting between charges. But to play it safe I will not be making any 2 mile runs unless the cart was charged up over night.