Batteries
1999 Transportation Electric Vehicle Owner’s Manual 23
New batteries will not deliver their full capabilities until they have been discharged and recharged 20 to 50
times. To obtain the maximum service life from new batteries, restrict vehicles with new batteries to one hour
of operation between charges for the first two months the vehicle is in service. Batteries should be fully
charged before first use of new vehicle, before first use of vehicle after storage, and before releasing vehicle
for use each day.
BATTERY CARE
To keep batteries in good working condition, follow this maintenance program on a regular basis:
1. The batteries should be kept clean and free of corrosion. Wash tops and terminals of batteries with a
solution of baking soda and water (1 cup baking soda per gallon of water). Rinse solution off batteries
(NOTE: Do not allow this solution to enter the battery). Be sure terminals are tight. Let the terminals dry
and then spray them with Club Car battery protector spray (Club Car Part No. 1014305).
2. The electrolyte level in the batteries should be checked weekly
(See Figure 10, Page 23, for proper
level)
. Add water only after charging unless the electrolyte level is below the top of the plates. In this case,
add just enough water to cover the plates, charge and then check the level again. Never charge batteries if
plates are exposed above electrolyte level. For best battery life, use only distilled water.
See following
NOTE.
3. The hold-down straps should be tight enough so that the batteries do not move while the vehicle is in motion,
but not so tight as to crack or buckle the battery case. Torque hold-down retaining nuts to 40 in.lb (4.5 N-m).
The terminal connections should be clean and tight, and any worn insulation or frayed wires should be
replaced. Torque battery terminals to 110 in.lb (12.4 N-m).
See following CAUTION.
4. After use, the batteries should be placed on charge. The batteries should never be left discharged any
longer than absolutely necessary (do not leave batteries discharged overnight).
•
CLUB CAR RECOMMENDS USING A BATTERY WATERING GUN OR BOTTLE. THESE ARE
AVAILABLE AT MANY AUTO PARTS DEALERS.
•
IF BATTERY WIRE TERMINALS ARE DAMAGED OR CORRODED, THEY SHOULD BE
REPLACED OR CLEANED AS NECESSARY. FAILURE TO DO SO MAY CAUSE THEM TO
OVERHEAT DURING OPERATION.
Figure 10 Electrolyte Level in Batteries
ELECTROLYTE
LEVEL AT LEAST
1/2 IN. ABOVE
PLATES OR TO
LEVEL INDICATOR
PLATES
LEVEL
INDICATOR
BATTERY
CAP
