How to Renew a Golf Cart Battery

By Steve Smith

A golf cart battery is likely to lose charge over the long offseason, especially if it isn't stored properly. A battery should be given light charges during long storage periods; if not it could lose charge permanently. If your battery was not lighly charged over the offseason, there are ways to renew the golf cart battery.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Disconnect the battery from the golf cart or charger if it is not already disconnected.

Step 2

Put on protective gloves, a mask and goggles, then open the covers on the top of the battery and carefully drain the acid and water solution from the battery cylinder. Save this solution in a glass container.

Step 3

Add a solution of water and Espom salts to the battery by placing a funnel into the cover openings and pouring the solution into the battery. Then gently shake and drain the battery. Repeat this process several times until the water drains clear.

Step 4

Pour the acid and water solution back into the battery using a funnel. Make sure to wear your protective gear during this process. Replace the covers.

Step 5

Attach the battery to a charging station and then charge the battery at the recommended voltage (normally between 2.3 and 2.4 volts for each cell your battery contains).

Step 6

Let the battery sit for one or two days, then test the battery using the charging station. Repeat Step 5 if the battery is not renewed.

Step 7

Apply an equalization charge to the battery by stepping up the voltage on your charger and charging it for one to two hours. Carefully monitor the battery during this process for signs of excessive heat or swelling. If any occur, immediately turn off the charger.

Tips & Warnings

Charging a battery at a higher voltage than recommended can cause the battery to heat up and vent. This is dangerous and can damage the battery. Immediately stop charging if this occurs with your battery. Battery acids should not come in contact with skin or eyes. Always wear protection when handling battery acids.

Battery acids should not come in contact with skin or eyes. Always wear protection when handling battery acids.

Resources

Charging golf cart batteries

About The Author

Steve Smith has published hundreds of articles on a wide range of topics, including cars, travel, lifestyle, business, golf, weddings and careers. His articles, features and news stories have appeared in newspapers, consumer magazines and on various websites, including Trails.com and eHow.com. Smith holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and journalism from University of New Hampshire Durham.