I have 2006 Ezra, five of the six batteries are seven years old, one just died, so used your video the convert to three 12 volts from Sam’s, $87/ea. my cart is now 2-3 hundred pound lighter, it runs great. Thanks
@@BootstrapRevival Since seeing your video back in March, I got my Walmart marine deep cycle DC24's in April and couldn't be more pleased. Thank you for the good information. The only problem is that it rides really rough due to the weight loss and the heavy duty springs. Hopefully I'll be able to remove the two extra spring leaves and get a smoother ride.
Sure it will work, those are group size 27 deep cycle batteries w/ about 75 amps each. Set up in series to make 36 volts, the amps stay the same. 6V golf batteries GC2 standard size are on the low end 180amp (super cheap Costco version) to over 230amp on the really good Deka or Trojan battery. You can also get 245amp batteries in the same size that are used in floor scrubber machines. Bottom line is - yes a deep cycle 12 volt battery will work, BUT 6 - 6 volt golf cart batteries will easily give 2 to 3 times (maybe more) the run time over 3 - 12 volt deep cycle. Compare the cell size between the 12v and 6v - the golf battery cells are 2 times larger and able to provide huge power to get a 1500 to 2000 pound cart (two men, clubs, etc) up and down and around 18 holes without issue, most golf carts run 2 rounds per day so the power is substantial. So if you are just goofing around your neighborhood on a relatively flat surface, you might be ok. But if you are playing golf or hauling something or driving more than a couple of miles you really need the higher capacity of 6 volt GC batteries.
How about using 2~3units 48v30ah LFP battery to replace 6v trojan battery? They are in the same GC2 housing. You just need to simply remove your old batteries, drop-in your new O'cell 48v lithium batteries, connect them in parallel, connect the CAN cables that come with your battery then trun your batteries on via the wake-up button. There’s no tray modifications and no extra components needed.
Also adding eletrolite instead of water will extend the life of the batteries. The voltage is the same but the state of charge per cell will start to degrade.
I tried the 3 DC24 battery route. While it worked fine I wasnt happy with the performance once I added larger tires. Ended up with 6 new crown batteries, $680 out the door.
@@garrettwinters9980Check Rural King for their store brand. Recently they had their 6V on sale for $100 ea. Golf cart shops in Central FL are advertising six 6V for $600. Installation $100 more but you can usually avoid that doing it yourself or someone you know doing it for you. It's an easy job.
I have an old beater 1982 EZ-Go and converted it to "Just" 3 - 12 Volt Marine Batteries...You had 6 - 12V marines in your cart. My old beater would only get around 3 miles to a charge though...my hills are much steeper and are mostly "pasture", although there's a gravel road I run each night too. I've had it 2 years now and it suddenly quit on me...dead in the water at the moment trying ti figure out what's up. I tested the batteries and they are still fine...I use a smart charger that stops when it reaches a full charge. I "suspect" a solenoid issue but have no experience there...I'll keep perusing you tubers and see if I can find clues. (Like your Aunt, I too am up there in age and just need it to do chore and small hauling jobs on the place here) Enjoyed your experiment though - thank you!
Depending on your usage needs this is a good way to save money. You do get less range, I did a swap to 4 12v marine batteries on my 48v cart 5 years ago, still running strong. I use it around the farm about 5 miles a day max 3-4 days a week, so it's fine for me. I get around 14 miles of range at a 50 percent max depth of discharge, compared to 35 miles from the trojan 170 amp 8v cart batteries at a 60 percent max depth of discharge. I recommend bypassing the carts obc and getting a smart charger with a good onboard lead acid charging profile and checking the electrolyte level frequently.
@@Reloadeez Hi I just switch out to a 48 v 4 marine battery system, I need a charger. Is the one you mentioned your ideal? Does it have a over charge protector? I’d like to take advantage of Amazon deal days 7 hours left!👍😋
I put three of the 12v Everready24dc, $300. I also purchased 36v charger from Amazon, $120. We Went camping all weekend. The cart did amazingly! I plan on charging the batteries at least once a month. I just hope they last for a few years. We will see! So far so good!
The thing I see that stands out is, I see 6 batteries in there, 12 volts yes, but 6 batteries. 3 in parallel with 3 more , so still 36 volts and more amps , but no weight savings at all. I used 3 deep cycle marine batteries for 36 volts. We don’t run it long distance but it goes good and only chargers it about once a week.
Great video that will help many people who may not know/understand the basics of batteries in golf carts and low speed electric vehicles. A couple of additional things, for those who may not be familiar with lead acid batteries (golf cart, deep cycle, or general use). 1) NEVER run them below 50% SOC (State Of Charge) or "half full" on your battery meter. Repeatedly doing this will internally damage the batteries. 2) If you have batteries that have the maintenance caps, get a watering system, like the one that Bootstrap Revival removed from the old batteries. This makes maintenance easier, but you still need to periodically take the caps off and verify the acid level in each cell is correct. IF/When you need to add to them, use DISTILLED WATER ONLY. 3) Extreme heat or cold will kill a battery (ANY battery chemistry). If you live in a climate that freezes in the winter, remove the batteries and store inside a garage or heated shed, where they won't be damaged. Same for if you live in an area that gets extremely hot. Do not store your cart/batteries in a giant oven (metal building, storage container, etc.) where the temps can get 120+. 4) When the cart isn't going to be used for a period of time (longer than a week), disconnect the main leads (Positive and Negative) or turn the Master Switch off, if the cart has one. Option 2 would be to connect a smart charger, and a timer system to turn the charger on for 6-8 hours every week. This will ensure the batteries maintain a proper charge and don't discharge below 50% and shorten the life. 5) Many people cringe at the cost of replacing batteries, and if one is bad, they want to just replace that one. Don't cave to the temptation. Replace all of the batteries, so that they all have the same number of charge cycles, come from the same batch, and should have approx. the same lifespan. Adding one new battery is going to drag it down quickly, as it tries to make up for the weakness of the rest of the "team."
i built a battery from a used chevy tahoe hybrid pack, it's basically a prius pack but with 2 extra cells to make it a 50 cell bank. i built the pack in 8 cell segments of 7.2v cells, then in series of 5 to equal 36 volts. i use solar panels to charge the pack in the sun and a 42v hoverboard battery charger when it's cloudy out. at 42 volts the cart moves pretty quick too and shows no signs of being too much voltage. with the 2amp 42v charger the cart will go about 2 miles on 2 hours charge. low voltage threshold built into the cart basically stops trying to push the cart at 28v, the NiMh hybrid cells can easily handle the upper and lower limits of this setup. i'm still balancing the pack slowly so i have no idea the true range of the cart, haven't left on charge for very long as of yet. likely will see some signs of battery degradation after years of use but these packs are like $100 now. i paid $300 for 2 civic hybrid packs, 1 G2 insight pack, 1 chevrolet tahoe pack and a ford fusion lithium pack(4 NiMh and 1 lithium in total) from a wrecking yard that wanted to stop tripping over them. the lithium pack is worth what i paid for all 5.
These 24DC batteries at Walmart are being discontinued. They’ve changed the name to 24M. Make sure you get these deep cycle version which is specified on the label. There’s also 24M that’s not deep cycle. Also don’t get them mixed up with the 24MS.
I ordered three 24DC batteries on-line from Walmart last week and they were delivered free the next day. The manufacture date was this month (4/24). $90 each, plus tax and $12 core. The local Walmart only had one in stock and it was a year old (4/23).
I used these same batteries in my 48V club car with the stock charger. at first they were great, but ended up only lasting 20 months which works out to $200/yr... upgrading to lifepo4 batteries this time.
If its in the budget lipo's are awesome. They do have some quirks. Like you can't charge them below 32 degrees F. Since this one was stored outdoors and we reach well below that for long periods of time we decided against it for now. Let us know how it goes!
@@BootstrapRevival ended up purchasing enjoybot lifepo4 batteries and installed them a couple weeks ago. first impression is they're fantastic. much lighter, no acid, faster recharge, longer range. only downside I can think of is cost and the lower temperature limit you mentioned which isn't a concern where I'm at. that said, these batteries do have a low temp cutoff feature that prevents charging at cold temps. these batteries are supposed to last much longer than lead acid and come with a 10 year warranty. if they last 7 years, I'll break even with the cost of these walmart deep cycle batts. thanks again for posting the video to help others revive useful carts!
i bought a house on 6 acres of land and it has 2 pole barns and in one of the barns i have this exact golf cart i'm going to change out the batteries and see if it runs
My dad gave be an old gf cart with very old batteries. My sister and i would go for rides. The batteries lasted so long that wed drive to 2 other towns (not in the same day). Wed have lunch.. drive around and then go home. 1 town was 6 miles there 6 back. I didnt know i was making the batteries get hot. I did it for 3 years. I ended up having to call for someone with a trailer to come and get me. I burnt the posts right out of the batteries. What a shame...such wonderful rides we had. So now its sat for a year. Im trying to decide what batteries to use. I thought maybe lithiumbut then i have to change other stuff. Maybe the car batteries would be best and dont go driving the country side... What do you all think? Im a 63 yr old female and i can do things like hook up new cables .. Whitch i did so i cobbled them fur a while when i first got it so i could drive it. What do you smart guys think?
I haven't finished watching your video yet but had to stop and say thanks for clearly explaining the series wiring set up. Just bought an old cart I plan on Restoring but before I do I'm gonna go out to my camper van and fix the wiring set up that's been wrong for 10 years. Iyiyiyiy
I understand why one would use three $90 12V batteries in place of six 6V batteries. This gets one around okay for modest usage at a little less than half the price of six 6V. But why use six 12V of these marine batteries when the total cost is just a little less than six genuine 6V deep cycle batteries that will likely last longer due to the full deep cycle design. Marine batteries are a compromise between a starting battery and a deep cycle battery. Here in Central Florida 6V deep cycle batteries are $100 each and up.
You can do that. One bank of 12 volt ( 3 batteries) will give you 36 volt in series ( pos to neg and so on). The other three 12v batteries in parallel ( pos to pos , neg to neg) will give 12v total but magnify the amps (3 x 110 amps) You hook positive lead from parallel bank to lead going to cart and negative lead from parallel bank to neg lead going to cart. That increases total amps available but not increase total voltage.
Great video and you are correct it's a much cheaper way to get by - driving slower actually does not help as the throttle is always full speed full amperage draw however at low speed some or most of the current is shunted through a resister bank and is simply wasted as heat at full speed all the current goes to the motor.
I bought 3 of the 24 dc batteries and a htrc 36/48 volt charger, I’m trying to find out what my low voltage number should be so I don’t run them too low, thanks for any input, it’s a 36 volt ez go
I just got the P3648 HTRC charger. One thing I don't like is the severe AM interference. Forget AM radio while it's running. Also it goes up to little above 44V before shutting down to trickle charge. That's the theoretical top voltage of a fully charged 36V system but I'm worried that it may be a little too high and fry the batteries. We'll see.
Hi Russel, hope all well from you. My pleaure to see this video, may i suggest you to experience 48v30ah LFP in GC2 size in your cars? Max support 10 connections parallel
Nice range test! It looks like you are short circuiting 3 terminals with the metal plate in the middle holding the batteries in palce. battery 4 negative, 5 possitive & 6 negative. Even if ther is a small margin between the plate and terminals you should consider waht happens when ther is a bump in the reoad and over time displacments of the batteries.
I’m seriously considering this. I have a 2007 club car presedent. I don’t wanna pay 1200 for 4 batteries. But I want to be able to play a few rounds of golf before they need recharging. Thoughts?
You can, but I really despise the factory charger. It has no float or trickle setting. Its jus on or off. I switched to a new to me Lester and it has been fantastic. It will rapid charge if its super low, then slow down as it gets towards full. It it is completely full it will just keep it there. Plus its onboard now and I can use a standard extension cord anywhere.
I got my hands on one of those massive lithium batteries. They are not the cheapest thing - I think around $1,100. I was seriously impressed. Here is the video I did about it: th-cam.com/video/ofGyOrAWhMg/w-d-xo.html Thanks for watching!
I am about to get a cart that needs new batteries. I want to do that on the cheap too. Is there anywhere I can look up a diagram of how to wire these? I’m afraid of electricity and don’t want to fry it!
Hey Drew! I have full confidence in you. We are our camping for 2 weeks but I can whip up a wiring diagram when I get back. It should look like this. You can use 3 or 6 12v batteries lh6.googleusercontent.com/-99_7bTI8Dto/TnyLCvj3ZBI/AAAAAAAACOU/lcjH_IMXsGg/s800/series-parallel.jpg
These might help too. I used them. They have black and red on the same cable. If you are using 6 batteries you will need to recycle one of your existing cables. My cables were junk so they had to be replaced. amzn.to/3NPDKqx
@@BootstrapRevival thanks for the diagram and the confidence boost! I’ll be working on it here in the next few days. Thanks again and enjoy your time camping.
@@BootstrapRevival so no bueno. I think I may have fried something and now I’ve got nothing. When I did the 3 together it worked good! Then I added the six and it overvolted things I think. Don’t know how to trouble shoot that. Thoughts?
What MCA Deep cycle Wal-Mart batteries dud you use ! Is it possible to get a picture of the label on the side of one of your batteries ? Great job and info. Thanks ! Love to have picture of the label......
You'll be sorry you went with three 12v bats. They don't last long and require constant charging. If you get 6 months of use out of three 12v's, consider yourself lucky.
@@GetRealBaby The Walmart batteries he used come with a 12 month replacement warranty. I did this in a Pargo cart many years ago and was happy with the performance. It was not used every day but worked fine for my needs. A three-mile range would be at the upper end of my usage needs and he got over ten.
I installed 3 group 31's on my ezgo shuttle and I drive through my neighborhood 2 to 3 times a day plus the kid driving and it lasts me just fine for what I do
ok so you have 2 banks of 36v batteries. you said you ran each bank in series then paralled the banks. Am I right so far?....lets say i am...so now you still have 36v but twice the amps/capacity....how far did you go this way and why do this?......I should mention that i did the same thing but only have 3 batteries
Great observation and question. Yes, I have 2 banks of 36 volts wired in parallel. I did not have to do this, I did this mainly because I was paranoid. This cart was put together not for me but an elderly family member who lives on a large farm. I wanted to make sure she had plenty of juice if she was pulling a trailer of feed or hay. It was probably overkill. We are approaching 6 months and its still rocking and rolling. I think the Summit 2 charger has helped a ton with keeping the batteries topped off at the appropriate level. We have had no issues with speed, distance or how long a charge lasts. Thanks for the comment!
What the least expensive way to charge the batteries, Does it need to have a overcharge protector on it? I need to make that purchase pretty quick! Thank you so very much
@@susanadair3360 - Great question! I had the same one myself. I just got done testing this one: amzn.to/4gZuZbi. and it worked great for $150. I had problems with the ones that would do 36 or 48v, lithium or lead acid. This one is 36v, lead acid only. The video (hopefully) will be out this week - depending on what this new hurricane does.
It would charge it, but honestly I really did't like the factory charger because it did not know when to turn off. I put in a Lester Summit smart charger. I got it used off eBay for $200. It will do 36 or 48 volts, it will charge fast when its really low, then back the amperage off as it gets close to full. Oh, and I put it under the seat. All we have to do it is plug it in and it takes care of the rest!
I did take my old batteries in for cores. I think Walmart has one of the lowest battery core charges - I believe its $12 - not a deal breaker if you don't have cores.
I need help. 36V 2007 EZGO. The batteries are fine. I rode it up the hill with a lot of resistance. The batteries got hot. I went for a hike, came back and the cart wouldn't move. I hear the click when I engage the pedal. Please help.
I think most people would tell you to use the same batteries.... however if I had them already and they were very close to the same amp hours or MCA...I'd run it.
Thank you for the video.I have been kicking around the idea of converting my 36 volt to 3 batteries. My main question is with the charger .I have 2 different chargers. The one that came with cart with no monitor and my second on is the little trickle charger with smart cut off only 5 amps. Could I get away with that?
You can do any 36v charger. A 12v won't work. I don't like the factory charger because it does not stop when the batteries are full. We put in a used Summit 2 I got off eBay and absolutely love it. I really appreciate you watching!
I tried this, installed just how your video said.. and when I turn the key on and press the accelerator, I hear the solenoid but it doesn’t move. Suggestion?
You can, but I really don't like them. I switched to the automatic (and onboard) Summit 2. I got it used off eBay. It will bring the batteries up to voltage and stop. The factory chargers are dumb and have no idea if they are overcharging or not.
You can use the factory charger but I really really don’t like it. It is off or on, it has no idea how charged your batteries are. I’ve used the Lester Summit 2 on multiple carts without issues. I’m just plug it in and it keeps them topped off correctly.
So basically 6 12v and every 2 are in parallel making 12v bank with double amp hours, then put 3 12v banks in series so u get 36 volts total with all six and double the amp hours?
It is a 36v cart so I have 3 batteries 12v in series making 36v. Then I have another 3 in series making 36v. I took those two banks of 36v and put them in parallel doubling the amp hours.
Very good test! Just to be clear, your results where with the 6ea 12v batteries in parallel? If you only used 3 batteries dropping the weight of the other 3 might have added 5 more miles. Also how long did it take to recharge them (3)? 👍🏾
I think there is a solid chance you wired it incorrectly. I would disconnect the main leads to the controller and check battery voltage from each and then across the bank. Check to see if you popped a fuse, check the diode on the solenoid and look for toasty wires. I’m sorry you guys are having issues!
No, but you will get longer life out of deep cycle batteries. Plus they will have screw terminals on them. If you had 3 12v batteries hanging around and a 36v cart you can wire it up and go.
I’m confused by this whole video. He says he used 3 12v to make 36v which makes sense, but then shows another bank of 3 12v ( behind the 36v bank) which was not connected and seemingly served no purpose . What was purpose for this test? Was the cart tested with the extra weight ? Was it tested with the second bank of batteries behind the 36 v bank in front?
Hey great question. Cart was tested with all 6 in the cart but only 3 hooked up to make 36 volts. I did not test all 6 together mainly because I did not want to ride 20 or so miles in circles. My neighbors already think I'm crazy enough. The 3 batteries are in series ( positive to negative) to make 36 volts. Series will increase the voltage. The two 36 volt banks are then wired together in parallel ( positive to positive and negative to negative). This will keep the same 36 volts but increase the amp hour capacity. Essentially doubling the range of 3 batteries. Hope this helps. PS. Cart is still running like a champ!
@@BootstrapRevival ok, I get the series part and successfully made the swap to 3 12v in series ( neg to pos) .However, Where did you connect the other bank ( parallel bank) to? The video does not show. How Did you hook the parallel bank to the series ( front) bank? Please show.
I bet your batteries need to be charged. 33v will get you moving. I would pull the cables off and check each battery to see if you have one that is lower than the rest.
You can but I don't like them. The stock charger has no idea of how full the batteries are. It will over charge and cook them. I switched to a smart charger that only charges when the batteries need it. This is the one if you want to check it out. I got mine used off eBay for way less. amzn.to/3QUWZAr
I used these because they were really inexpensive: amzn.to/3XoNpsE. They worked well but I think it might be one cable short, but I had an extra hanging around.
I’m really wanting to know the mileage distance of the six 12V batteries. I’m thinking it’s the way to go. I charge my cart with six 6 volts and only get 2 miles before it’s dying. No way I can afford a lithium pack.
I think your math is wrong on your amp hours … if they are in series you increase the voltage your amp hours stays the same, so for each 36v bank you only have 100ah, so 200ah total as you have configured there…. If you had all 6 in parallel you would have 12v 600ah
Do the math watt, amp & voltage. And how many times can you recharge it and charger make compatible with batteries. Hey just going to buy a new set of 6 volt batteries Costco. Time on the internet.
It was for a test. I wanted to know how far 3 batteries would take me. I also had a wrench on hand so I could swap to the other set of 3 so I could drive the cart home and not push it. We are running all 6 on the farm. Thanks for watching!
LEAD is a terrible pollution. We tool lead out of paint and gas why use heavy , short life lead acid batteries Compare how long they last. Lead is about 1 year life. Lithium are 8 to 10 years.
It'll be OK for a little while then you'll lose charge quickly theoretically you're running less voltage but the same Amp hour 6 6 volt High output deep cell or lithium will be your best bet wired in series your voltage will be higher along with Amp hours and run time will be 3 to 8X longer especially with lithium perhaps 10X longer but you're talking $1000 to $2000
I have 2006 Ezra, five of the six batteries are seven years old, one just died, so used your video the convert to three 12 volts from Sam’s, $87/ea. my cart is now 2-3 hundred pound lighter, it runs great. Thanks
I love this!
@@BootstrapRevival Since seeing your video back in March, I got my Walmart marine deep cycle DC24's in April and couldn't be more pleased. Thank you for the good information. The only problem is that it rides really rough due to the weight loss and the heavy duty springs. Hopefully I'll be able to remove the two extra spring leaves and get a smoother ride.
Sure it will work, those are group size 27 deep cycle batteries w/ about 75 amps each. Set up in series to make 36 volts, the amps stay the same. 6V golf batteries GC2 standard size are on the low end 180amp (super cheap Costco version) to over 230amp on the really good Deka or Trojan battery. You can also get 245amp batteries in the same size that are used in floor scrubber machines. Bottom line is - yes a deep cycle 12 volt battery will work, BUT 6 - 6 volt golf cart batteries will easily give 2 to 3 times (maybe more) the run time over 3 - 12 volt deep cycle. Compare the cell size between the 12v and 6v - the golf battery cells are 2 times larger and able to provide huge power to get a 1500 to 2000 pound cart (two men, clubs, etc) up and down and around 18 holes without issue, most golf carts run 2 rounds per day so the power is substantial. So if you are just goofing around your neighborhood on a relatively flat surface, you might be ok. But if you are playing golf or hauling something or driving more than a couple of miles you really need the higher capacity of 6 volt GC batteries.
True all that...speaking from experience.
Especially if your swinging bigger than stock tires and wheels.
How about using 2~3units 48v30ah LFP battery to replace 6v trojan battery? They are in the same GC2 housing. You just need to simply remove your old batteries, drop-in your new O'cell 48v lithium batteries, connect them in parallel, connect the CAN cables that come with your battery then trun your batteries on via the wake-up button. There’s no tray modifications and no extra components needed.
Also adding eletrolite instead of water will extend the life of the batteries. The voltage is the same but the state of charge per cell will start to degrade.
Did you mention how much weight your losing with 3 batteries VS 6 batteries
I tried the 3 DC24 battery route. While it worked fine I wasnt happy with the performance once I added larger tires. Ended up with 6 new crown batteries, $680 out the door.
Where did you get them at? Im seeing 6 for around double that cost.
@@garrettwinters9980Check Rural King for their store brand. Recently they had their 6V on sale for $100 ea. Golf cart shops in Central FL are advertising six 6V for $600. Installation $100 more but you can usually avoid that doing it yourself or someone you know doing it for you. It's an easy job.
I have an old beater 1982 EZ-Go and converted it to "Just" 3 - 12 Volt Marine Batteries...You had 6 - 12V marines in your cart. My old beater would only get around 3 miles to a charge though...my hills are much steeper and are mostly "pasture", although there's a gravel road I run each night too. I've had it 2 years now and it suddenly quit on me...dead in the water at the moment trying ti figure out what's up. I tested the batteries and they are still fine...I use a smart charger that stops when it reaches a full charge. I "suspect" a solenoid issue but have no experience there...I'll keep perusing you tubers and see if I can find clues. (Like your Aunt, I too am up there in age and just need it to do chore and small hauling jobs on the place here) Enjoyed your experiment though - thank you!
Depending on your usage needs this is a good way to save money. You do get less range, I did a swap to 4 12v marine batteries on my 48v cart 5 years ago, still running strong. I use it around the farm about 5 miles a day max 3-4 days a week, so it's fine for me. I get around 14 miles of range at a 50 percent max depth of discharge, compared to 35 miles from the trojan 170 amp 8v cart batteries at a 60 percent max depth of discharge. I recommend bypassing the carts obc and getting a smart charger with a good onboard lead acid charging profile and checking the electrolyte level frequently.
group size?
@@Reloadeez Hi I just switch out to a 48 v 4 marine battery system, I need a charger. Is the one you mentioned your ideal? Does it have a over charge protector? I’d like to take advantage of Amazon deal days 7 hours left!👍😋
I put three of the 12v Everready24dc, $300. I also purchased 36v charger from Amazon, $120. We Went camping all weekend. The cart did amazingly! I plan on charging the batteries at least once a month. I just hope they last for a few years. We will see! So far so good!
The thing I see that stands out is, I see 6 batteries in there, 12 volts yes, but 6 batteries. 3 in parallel with 3 more , so still 36 volts and more amps , but no weight savings at all. I used 3 deep cycle marine batteries for 36 volts. We don’t run it long distance but it goes good and only chargers it about once a week.
Great video that will help many people who may not know/understand the basics of batteries in golf carts and low speed electric vehicles.
A couple of additional things, for those who may not be familiar with lead acid batteries (golf cart, deep cycle, or general use).
1) NEVER run them below 50% SOC (State Of Charge) or "half full" on your battery meter. Repeatedly doing this will internally damage the batteries.
2) If you have batteries that have the maintenance caps, get a watering system, like the one that Bootstrap Revival removed from the old batteries. This makes maintenance easier, but you still need to periodically take the caps off and verify the acid level in each cell is correct. IF/When you need to add to them, use DISTILLED WATER ONLY.
3) Extreme heat or cold will kill a battery (ANY battery chemistry). If you live in a climate that freezes in the winter, remove the batteries and store inside a garage or heated shed, where they won't be damaged. Same for if you live in an area that gets extremely hot. Do not store your cart/batteries in a giant oven (metal building, storage container, etc.) where the temps can get 120+.
4) When the cart isn't going to be used for a period of time (longer than a week), disconnect the main leads (Positive and Negative) or turn the Master Switch off, if the cart has one. Option 2 would be to connect a smart charger, and a timer system to turn the charger on for 6-8 hours every week. This will ensure the batteries maintain a proper charge and don't discharge below 50% and shorten the life.
5) Many people cringe at the cost of replacing batteries, and if one is bad, they want to just replace that one. Don't cave to the temptation. Replace all of the batteries, so that they all have the same number of charge cycles, come from the same batch, and should have approx. the same lifespan. Adding one new battery is going to drag it down quickly, as it tries to make up for the weakness of the rest of the "team."
Thank you for your videos!.......... has anyone said you sound like Steve Caroll?
i built a battery from a used chevy tahoe hybrid pack, it's basically a prius pack but with 2 extra cells to make it a 50 cell bank. i built the pack in 8 cell segments of 7.2v cells, then in series of 5 to equal 36 volts. i use solar panels to charge the pack in the sun and a 42v hoverboard battery charger when it's cloudy out. at 42 volts the cart moves pretty quick too and shows no signs of being too much voltage. with the 2amp 42v charger the cart will go about 2 miles on 2 hours charge. low voltage threshold built into the cart basically stops trying to push the cart at 28v, the NiMh hybrid cells can easily handle the upper and lower limits of this setup. i'm still balancing the pack slowly so i have no idea the true range of the cart, haven't left on charge for very long as of yet.
likely will see some signs of battery degradation after years of use but these packs are like $100 now. i paid $300 for 2 civic hybrid packs, 1 G2 insight pack, 1 chevrolet tahoe pack and a ford fusion lithium pack(4 NiMh and 1 lithium in total) from a wrecking yard that wanted to stop tripping over them. the lithium pack is worth what i paid for all 5.
These 24DC batteries at Walmart are being discontinued. They’ve changed the name to 24M. Make sure you get these deep cycle version which is specified on the label. There’s also 24M that’s not deep cycle. Also don’t get them mixed up with the 24MS.
I ordered three 24DC batteries on-line from Walmart last week and they were delivered free the next day. The manufacture date was this month (4/24). $90 each, plus tax and $12 core. The local Walmart only had one in stock and it was a year old (4/23).
@@Houdefinition42Productions I just checked inventory with my Walmart app. They are still showing the 24DC Marine deep cycle batteries.
never seen final wire hookups!!! did i miss something
I used these same batteries in my 48V club car with the stock charger. at first they were great, but ended up only lasting 20 months which works out to $200/yr... upgrading to lifepo4 batteries this time.
If its in the budget lipo's are awesome. They do have some quirks. Like you can't charge them below 32 degrees F. Since this one was stored outdoors and we reach well below that for long periods of time we decided against it for now. Let us know how it goes!
@@BootstrapRevival ended up purchasing enjoybot lifepo4 batteries and installed them a couple weeks ago. first impression is they're fantastic. much lighter, no acid, faster recharge, longer range. only downside I can think of is cost and the lower temperature limit you mentioned which isn't a concern where I'm at. that said, these batteries do have a low temp cutoff feature that prevents charging at cold temps. these batteries are supposed to last much longer than lead acid and come with a 10 year warranty. if they last 7 years, I'll break even with the cost of these walmart deep cycle batts. thanks again for posting the video to help others revive useful carts!
@@GetOffMyIce uhhhhh hellooo what was cost,,& how far does a reg cart go on stock batteries
@@raybosflorida4928 a 48V lifepo4 pack was about $1200 US and my lifted cart can easily go >30 miles on a charge
We put 3 4d30 batteries on our golf cart at work, they are the length of 2 of those batteries so we removed the center divide.
Thats awesome. I’ve wanted to see a cart with tractor/truck batteries in it. I figured fitting then all in there would be an issue.
i bought a house on 6 acres of land and it has 2 pole barns and in one of the barns i have this exact golf cart i'm going to change out the batteries and see if it runs
I love all of this comment! One day we’ll have a few acres!
My dad gave be an old gf cart with very old batteries. My sister and i would go for rides. The batteries lasted so long that wed drive to 2 other towns (not in the same day). Wed have lunch.. drive around and then go home. 1 town was 6 miles there 6 back.
I didnt know i was making the batteries get hot. I did it for 3 years. I ended up having to call for someone with a trailer to come and get me. I burnt the posts right out of the batteries. What a shame...such wonderful rides we had. So now its sat for a year. Im trying to decide what batteries to use. I thought maybe lithiumbut then i have to change other stuff. Maybe the car batteries would be best and dont go driving the country side... What do you all think?
Im a 63 yr old female and i can do things like hook up new cables .. Whitch i did so i cobbled them fur a while when i first got it so i could drive it.
What do you smart guys think?
I haven't finished watching your video yet but had to stop and say thanks for clearly explaining the series wiring set up. Just bought an old cart I plan on Restoring but before I do I'm gonna go out to my camper van and fix the wiring set up that's been wrong for 10 years. Iyiyiyiy
You are welcome!
I understand why one would use three $90 12V batteries in place of six 6V batteries. This gets one around okay for modest usage at a little less than half the price of six 6V. But why use six 12V of these marine batteries when the total cost is just a little less than six genuine 6V deep cycle batteries that will likely last longer due to the full deep cycle design. Marine batteries are a compromise between a starting battery and a deep cycle battery. Here in Central Florida 6V deep cycle batteries are $100 each and up.
Where in Florida do you get them for $100
I want to do the same thing as you in this video, but have all 6 12v batteries hooked up at the same time and only use 36v
You can do that. One bank of 12 volt ( 3 batteries) will give you 36 volt in series ( pos to neg and so on). The other three 12v batteries in parallel ( pos to pos , neg to neg) will give 12v total but magnify the amps (3 x 110 amps) You hook positive lead from parallel bank to lead going to cart and negative lead from parallel bank to neg lead going to cart. That increases total amps available but not increase total voltage.
Great video and you are correct it's a much cheaper way to get by - driving slower actually does not help as the throttle is always full speed full amperage draw however at low speed some or most of the current is shunted through a resister bank and is simply wasted as heat at full speed all the current goes to the motor.
Not on a modern cart like that which has an electronic motor controller. Older carts did waste excess voltage through resistor coils, though.
I have that exact cart wanting to convert it to 3 12s
Let us know how it goes!
I bought 3 of the 24 dc batteries and a htrc 36/48 volt charger, I’m trying to find out what my low voltage number should be so I don’t run them too low, thanks for any input, it’s a 36 volt ez go
I just got the P3648 HTRC charger. One thing I don't like is the severe AM interference. Forget AM radio while it's running. Also it goes up to little above 44V before shutting down to trickle charge. That's the theoretical top voltage of a fully charged 36V system but I'm worried that it may be a little too high and fry the batteries. We'll see.
Good video man thank you so much with three batteries how long do you think I will ride until they die.
Me and 3 kids
Great video what app did you use for a speedometer in the odometer
Honestly I just typed in speedometer in the app store and picked a free one. I'm fairly sure its called "Speedometer>>" on Apple.
Hi Russel, hope all well from you. My pleaure to see this video, may i suggest you to experience 48v30ah LFP in GC2 size in your cars? Max support 10 connections parallel
Nice range test!
It looks like you are short circuiting 3 terminals with the metal plate in the middle holding the batteries in palce. battery 4 negative, 5 possitive & 6 negative. Even if ther is a small margin between the plate and terminals you should consider waht happens when ther is a bump in the reoad and over time displacments of the batteries.
I completely agree - however this one is plastic and non conductive.
I’m seriously considering this. I have a 2007 club car presedent. I don’t wanna pay 1200 for 4 batteries. But I want to be able to play a few rounds of golf before they need recharging. Thoughts?
I have no regrets. I have an 8 month follow up video if you want to see it: th-cam.com/video/q2ANMTbabgM/w-d-xo.html
Can you use the charger that is made for golf cart. To charge all 3 at once. Thanks. Great job🎉
You can, but I really despise the factory charger. It has no float or trickle setting. Its jus on or off. I switched to a new to me Lester and it has been fantastic. It will rapid charge if its super low, then slow down as it gets towards full. It it is completely full it will just keep it there. Plus its onboard now and I can use a standard extension cord anywhere.
What about those lithium ion golf cart packs. How far do those go. Are they worth the high price tag?
I got my hands on one of those massive lithium batteries. They are not the cheapest thing - I think around $1,100. I was seriously impressed. Here is the video I did about it:
th-cam.com/video/ofGyOrAWhMg/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for watching!
I am about to get a cart that needs new batteries. I want to do that on the cheap too. Is there anywhere I can look up a diagram of how to wire these? I’m afraid of electricity and don’t want to fry it!
Hey Drew! I have full confidence in you. We are our camping for 2 weeks but I can whip up a wiring diagram when I get back. It should look like this. You can use 3 or 6 12v batteries
lh6.googleusercontent.com/-99_7bTI8Dto/TnyLCvj3ZBI/AAAAAAAACOU/lcjH_IMXsGg/s800/series-parallel.jpg
These might help too. I used them. They have black and red on the same cable. If you are using 6 batteries you will need to recycle one of your existing cables. My cables were junk so they had to be replaced.
amzn.to/3NPDKqx
@@BootstrapRevival thanks for the diagram and the confidence boost! I’ll be working on it here in the next few days. Thanks again and enjoy your time camping.
@@TheDrewPeters I posted an 8 month follow up video if you have not seen it. Let us know how the batteries go!
@@BootstrapRevival so no bueno. I think I may have fried something and now I’ve got nothing. When I did the 3 together it worked good! Then I added the six and it overvolted things I think. Don’t know how to trouble shoot that. Thoughts?
What MCA Deep cycle Wal-Mart batteries dud you use ! Is it possible to get a picture of the label on the side of one of your batteries ? Great job and info. Thanks ! Love to have picture of the label......
This is the one I used: www.walmart.com/ip/seort/180350522
You'll be sorry you went with three 12v bats. They don't last long and require constant charging. If you get 6 months of use out of three 12v's, consider yourself lucky.
@@GetRealBaby The Walmart batteries he used come with a 12 month replacement warranty. I did this in a Pargo cart many years ago and was happy with the performance. It was not used every day but worked fine for my needs. A three-mile range would be at the upper end of my usage needs and he got over ten.
I installed 3 group 31's on my ezgo shuttle and I drive through my neighborhood 2 to 3 times a day plus the kid driving and it lasts me just fine for what I do
I call these Neverstarts !!!
These are working like a camp for me. I swear its the lester automatic charger!
So if I put 3x 12v 100Ah batteries, would my factory charger be able to charge it?
My factory charger plug is stamped 50A 600V
ok so you have 2 banks of 36v batteries. you said you ran each bank in series then paralled the banks. Am I right so far?....lets say i am...so now you still have 36v but twice the amps/capacity....how far did you go this way and why do this?......I should mention that i did the same thing but only have 3 batteries
Great observation and question. Yes, I have 2 banks of 36 volts wired in parallel. I did not have to do this, I did this mainly because I was paranoid. This cart was put together not for me but an elderly family member who lives on a large farm. I wanted to make sure she had plenty of juice if she was pulling a trailer of feed or hay. It was probably overkill. We are approaching 6 months and its still rocking and rolling. I think the Summit 2 charger has helped a ton with keeping the batteries topped off at the appropriate level. We have had no issues with speed, distance or how long a charge lasts. Thanks for the comment!
@Bootstrap Revival did you ever do the distance comparison between the 3 12's vs the 6 12's very curious.
So I did the 3 battery set up but seems my batteries are draining quicker now. Any ideas an I went to a bigger gage wire ?
If correctly installed could this damage my Yahama golf cart motor or wiring
It won't damage anything if wired correctly. Check with a meter before hooking up the leads to your controller.
No it doesn’t! What a wonderful thing! My cousin watched and agreed to give it a try on my golf cart! 100% Thank you it runs like a dream!
What the least expensive way to charge the batteries, Does it need to have a overcharge protector on it? I need to make that purchase pretty quick! Thank you so very much
@@susanadair3360 - Great question! I had the same one myself. I just got done testing this one: amzn.to/4gZuZbi. and it worked great for $150. I had problems with the ones that would do 36 or 48v, lithium or lead acid. This one is 36v, lead acid only. The video (hopefully) will be out this week - depending on what this new hurricane does.
Can you send me a picture of the batteries
Was the regular charger able to charge the 6 12v batteries? If not, what did you use specifically? I'm new to batteries and don't know much. 🙂
It would charge it, but honestly I really did't like the factory charger because it did not know when to turn off. I put in a Lester Summit smart charger. I got it used off eBay for $200. It will do 36 or 48 volts, it will charge fast when its really low, then back the amperage off as it gets close to full. Oh, and I put it under the seat. All we have to do it is plug it in and it takes care of the rest!
Quick question when you got the battery’s from Walmart did you take 3 of your old batteries so they don’t charge you a core fee?
I did take my old batteries in for cores. I think Walmart has one of the lowest battery core charges - I believe its $12 - not a deal breaker if you don't have cores.
I need help. 36V 2007 EZGO. The batteries are fine. I rode it up the hill with a lot of resistance. The batteries got hot. I went for a hike, came back and the cart wouldn't move. I hear the click when I engage the pedal. Please help.
Oh man, I for sure drove up a pile of hills with ours. Did you get it figured out? Are all the cables tight?
Can I use 2 everstart 24DC’s and 1 everstart 24MS? Both are Marine batts.
I think most people would tell you to use the same batteries.... however if I had them already and they were very close to the same amp hours or MCA...I'd run it.
Thank you for the video.I have been kicking around the idea of converting my 36 volt to 3 batteries. My main question is with the charger .I have 2 different chargers. The one that came with cart with no monitor and my second on is the little trickle charger with smart cut off only 5 amps. Could I get away with that?
You can do any 36v charger. A 12v won't work. I don't like the factory charger because it does not stop when the batteries are full. We put in a used Summit 2 I got off eBay and absolutely love it. I really appreciate you watching!
I tried this, installed just how your video said.. and when I turn the key on and press the accelerator, I hear the solenoid but it doesn’t move. Suggestion?
Have you checked your output voltage with a multi meter? All the lugs tight?
I tried this and I dont know if the charger dosent work correctly, but I get less than an hour run.
were you able to use a regular charger for the golf cart to charge 12 volt batteries
You can, but I really don't like them. I switched to the automatic (and onboard) Summit 2. I got it used off eBay. It will bring the batteries up to voltage and stop. The factory chargers are dumb and have no idea if they are overcharging or not.
Did you use the same charger to charge the new batteries?
You can use the factory charger but I really really don’t like it. It is off or on, it has no idea how charged your batteries are. I’ve used the Lester Summit 2 on multiple carts without issues. I’m just plug it in and it keeps them topped off correctly.
I did it and it works but it goes realllyyyy slow. Any idea why??
Have you checked the voltage with a meter?
Great video. Thank u
Thanks for watching!
awesome sir. i will be trying this
Give it a try and let us know how it goes!
So it say three batteries but it’s six in there?
So basically 6 12v and every 2 are in parallel making 12v bank with double amp hours, then put 3 12v banks in series so u get 36 volts total with all six and double the amp hours?
It is a 36v cart so I have 3 batteries 12v in series making 36v. Then I have another 3 in series making 36v. I took those two banks of 36v and put them in parallel doubling the amp hours.
@@BootstrapRevival have u tested range after hooking up all six ? Will the doubled amp hours basically double ur ride time?
Very good test! Just to be clear, your results where with the 6ea 12v batteries in parallel? If you only used 3 batteries dropping the weight of the other 3 might have added 5 more miles. Also how long did it take to recharge them (3)? 👍🏾
We just did this and now it wont go. We heard a pop sound when connecting the battery. Do you think we blew the solenoid?
I think there is a solid chance you wired it incorrectly. I would disconnect the main leads to the controller and check battery voltage from each and then across the bank. Check to see if you popped a fuse, check the diode on the solenoid and look for toasty wires. I’m sorry you guys are having issues!
@@BootstrapRevival Did we need to install a converter because of the higher voltage?
Must the batteries be Deep-Cycle to work in the carts?
No, but you will get longer life out of deep cycle batteries. Plus they will have screw terminals on them. If you had 3 12v batteries hanging around and a 36v cart you can wire it up and go.
I’m confused by this whole video. He says he used 3 12v to make 36v which makes sense, but then shows another bank of 3 12v ( behind the 36v bank) which was not connected and seemingly served no purpose . What was purpose for this test? Was the cart tested with the extra weight ? Was it tested with the second bank of batteries behind the 36 v bank in front?
Hey great question. Cart was tested with all 6 in the cart but only 3 hooked up to make 36 volts. I did not test all 6 together mainly because I did not want to ride 20 or so miles in circles. My neighbors already think I'm crazy enough. The 3 batteries are in series ( positive to negative) to make 36 volts. Series will increase the voltage. The two 36 volt banks are then wired together in parallel ( positive to positive and negative to negative). This will keep the same 36 volts but increase the amp hour capacity. Essentially doubling the range of 3 batteries.
Hope this helps.
PS. Cart is still running like a champ!
@@BootstrapRevival ok, I get the series part and successfully made the swap to 3 12v in series ( neg to pos) .However, Where did you connect the other bank ( parallel bank) to? The video does not show. How Did you hook the parallel bank to the series ( front) bank? Please show.
Can I still use my cart charger when I do this???
I have #3 =12v but all I am getting 33 volt not 36v do I need 1 more battery? or is 33volt ok
I bet your batteries need to be charged. 33v will get you moving. I would pull the cables off and check each battery to see if you have one that is lower than the rest.
What battery profile are you using on your Lester summit 2?
I emailed support told them my battery config, type and model number of my charger - they told me to use: 22252. Hope that helps!
@@BootstrapRevival would it be the same on 3 or 6 (12volts)? I only have 3 batteries in right now.
@@SpAvidhunter1989 - Great question - it is the same.
Are you still able to retain the stock 36v charger?
You can but I don't like them. The stock charger has no idea of how full the batteries are. It will over charge and cook them. I switched to a smart charger that only charges when the batteries need it. This is the one if you want to check it out. I got mine used off eBay for way less.
amzn.to/3QUWZAr
I didn’t think I was this stupid but how are you charging the batteries
I'm using a lester summit 2 with a lead acid setting. Factory charger would work too but I don't like them because they don't cut off automatically.
Where do you get all of the cables
I used these because they were really inexpensive: amzn.to/3XoNpsE. They worked well but I think it might be one cable short, but I had an extra hanging around.
have everyone use the Temgot golf cart battery?
I've been eyeballing them...Think I should try one?
@@BootstrapRevival yep
Any update on the six batteries?
They are rocking and rolling. ZERO issues. We are coming up on the 6 month mark and I was hoping to do a follow up video.,
I’m really wanting to know the mileage distance of the six 12V batteries. I’m thinking it’s the way to go. I charge my cart with six 6 volts and only get 2 miles before it’s dying. No way I can afford a lithium pack.
I think your math is wrong on your amp hours … if they are in series you increase the voltage your amp hours stays the same, so for each 36v bank you only have 100ah, so 200ah total as you have configured there…. If you had all 6 in parallel you would have 12v 600ah
600ah sounds like good long run time .
@@norisboren5402 Each 3 in series is 100Ah. The series connected parallel are additive in Ah. So he is achieving 200Ah.
Do the math watt, amp & voltage. And how many times can you recharge it and charger make compatible with batteries. Hey just going to buy a new set of 6 volt batteries Costco. Time on the internet.
Why you run on three batteries if they are six.
It was for a test. I wanted to know how far 3 batteries would take me. I also had a wrench on hand so I could swap to the other set of 3 so I could drive the cart home and not push it. We are running all 6 on the farm. Thanks for watching!
Did u need the converter
I used the converter for the lights. You could in theory just wire them to 1 12v battery.
Why two banks of batteries?
Great question. I did not have to - but it will double the total amp hours I have onboard. Effectively doubling my range.
Nice video
Thanks!
LEAD is a terrible pollution. We tool lead out of paint and gas why use heavy , short life lead acid batteries
Compare how long they last. Lead is about 1 year life. Lithium are 8 to 10 years.
We did this. It lasted a little while... now it won't go 10 minutes qnd it dies fast. Don't recommend unless your not using it much
How are they doing I just pick up a golf car and batteries look dead
So far so good! Paired them with the Lester Summit auto float charger. Works great.
Swift Pass
awesome
It'll be OK for a little while then you'll lose charge quickly theoretically you're running less voltage but the same Amp hour 6 6 volt High output deep cell or lithium will be your best bet wired in series your voltage will be higher along with Amp hours and run time will be 3 to 8X longer especially with lithium perhaps 10X longer but you're talking $1000 to $2000