How to Check Golf Cart Batteries
By Bill Herrfeldt
Electric golf carts are simple modes of transportation, but if you don't occasionally check the batteries, you may end up walking the seven or so miles it takes to play 18 holes. Keep your electric golf cart working by following these simple steps.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Check the water levels. Unlike most car batteries, which are sealed and essentially maintenance-free, batteries in your electric cart run low of water, and before long, they will fail to charge. Remove the caps and carefully fill the batteries with distilled water to the lines indicated by the manufacturer. Most electric carts have up to six batteries; be sure to check water levels in all of them.
Check for battery leaks. Occasionally, electric golf cart batteries will become damaged or cracked and begin to leak battery acid into the body of your cart. Not only will the battery ultimately fail, but the spilled acid is a hazard to anyone using the cart. If you have a cart battery that is leaking, it must be replaced.
Make sure there is no corrosion on the battery cables. Over time, the cables attached to your cart batteries will become corroded from the air or from leaking battery acid. If the corrosion is limited, buy a wire tool sold by most auto parts stores for cleaning the cables. With a screwdriver, loosen the screws attaching the cables to the battery terminals and remove the cables. Clean them with the tool, and then replace them on the terminals and screw them on tightly.
Check the golf cart batteries on a regular schedule, depending on how often you use the cart. If you use it every day, check the batteries at least once a month.
Tips & Warnings
Whenever you check the electric golf cart's batteries, check the condition of the tires and the brakes, too.
About The Author
Bill Herrfeldt specializes in finance, sports and the needs of retiring people, and has been published in the national edition of "Erickson Tribune," the "Washington Post" and the "Arizona Republic." He graduated from the University of Louisville.
