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www.pridemobility.com
Blast/Rev F/Feb03
V I I . B A T T E R I E S A N D C H A R G I N G
How can I get maximum range or distance per charge?
Rarely do you have an ideal driving situation such as smooth, flat, hard terrain with no wind, hills, or curves. More often you are presented
with hills, sidewalk cracks, uneven and loosely packed surfaces, curves, and wind. All of these factors will affect the distance or running
time per battery charge. Below are a few suggestions for obtaining the maximum range per charge:
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Always charge the batteries fully prior to your trip.
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Plan your trip in advance to avoid inclines if possible.
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Limit baggage weight to essential items.
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Try to maintain an even speed and avoid stop-and-go driving.
What type of batteries should I use?
We recommend deep-cycle batteries that are sealed and maintenance free. Both AGM and Gel-Cell are deep-cycle batteries that are
similar in performance.
Use these specifications to reorder deep-cycle batteries:
BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS
Type:
Deep-cycle (AGM or Gel-Cell)
Size:
Group 24
Voltage:
12V each
WARNING! Corrosive chemicals are contained in batteries. Use only AGM or gel-cell batteries to
reduce the risk of leakage or explosive conditions.
Why do my new batteries seem weak?
Deep-cycle batteries employ a much different chemical technology than that used in car batteries, nickel-cadmium (nicads), or in other
common battery types. Deep-cycle batteries are specifically designed to provide power, drain down their charge, and then accept a
relatively quick recharge. Lead-acid batteries should be charged as often as possible. They do not have a memory like nickel-
cadmium batteries.
We work closely with our battery manufacturer to provide a battery that best suits your Blasts specific demands. Fresh batteries arrive
regularly at Pride and are promptly shipped with a full charge. During shipping, the batteries encounter temperature extremes that may
influence initial performance. Heat robs the charge from the battery, and cold slows the power available and extends the time needed to
recharge the battery (just as with a car battery).
It might take a few days for the temperature of the battery to stabilize and adjust to its new ambient temperature. More importantly, it will take
a few charging cycles (a partial drain then a full recharge) to establish the critical chemical balance that is essential to the batterys peak
performance and long life. It will be well worth it to take the time to break in your battery properly.
NOTE: The useful life of a battery is quite often a reflection of the care it receives.
How can I ensure maximum battery life?
A fully charged deep-cycle battery will provide reliable performance and extended battery life. Keep your Blasts batteries fully charged
whenever possible. Batteries that are regularly and deeply discharged, infrequently charged, or stored without a full charge may be
permanently damaged, causing unreliable Blast operation and limited battery life.
