SECTION 4 ELECTRIC SYSTEM
P5 OWNERS MANUAL 2013
BATTERY CLEANING
Acid-soaked debris on the battery terminal connections will cause current leakage, reduces battery efficiency, and
battery life.
Hose wash battery terminal connections periodically with clean low-pressure water to keep them free of acid spillage,
dirt, and other debris. Do not hose wash electronic controllers, switches, solenoids and other electrical control
devices. Cover as necessary to prevent splashing. Clean battery terminal connections with baking soda (sodium
bicarbonate) and water solution. Mix 5 teaspoons baking soda per quart of water. Use a stiff bristle brush, rinse with
clean water and dry with a clean cloth. Torque connections to 100 in. lbs
NOTICE:
Follow local ordinances and codes for proper disposal of battery cleaning waste.
CONDITIONS WHICH AFFECT CHARGING
Always schedule enough charging time so the charger attains the 100% level. Charging time is affected by age and
battery condition, state of discharge, electrolyte temperature, AC line voltage, and other variables. Correct charging
methods extend battery life and vehicle range between charges. If vehicle is used only occasionally, a refresher
charge should be given prior to using.
New batteries need up to four hours more charging than “mature” batteries. Before the first use, completely charge
new batteries. Charging time will vary based on conditions noted above but will probably be 12 hours.
Limit new batteries use between charges for the first 25
– 50 cycles. New batteries have less capacity than seasoned
batteries. New batteries should not be discharged more the 20
– 30% before recharging. This will prevent premature
battery failure.
Battery efficiency is affected by temperature. If the temperature of the outside air and/or batteries is below 60º F,
battery capacity is reduced. Batteries will require more frequent and longer charge periods in early spring, fall and
winter.
As batteries age, they finish charge at progressively higher charge rates and tend to use more distilled water. At this
point in battery age, charger will automatically begin reducing charge time.
Batteries found defective must be replaced. All batteries in a vehicle should be matched according to age, capacity
and brand.
BATTERY CHARGING DELTA Q Model
All current production Columbia 24/36/48 volt electric vehicles are built with a new solid state on-
board, fully automatic high-frequency, programmable battery charger as standard equipment. This
section explains in more detail the charger operation.
The charge status can be found on a remote multicolored LED (Figure 16). This LED and descriptive
label will be located near the charger receptacle.
CHARGER OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS DELTA Q Model
Connect the supplied power cord to the vehicle charger receptacle and to a properly grounded wall outlet. Charger
start and charge time is automatic. The remote LED will be flashing short green. If this LED is not lit check the AC
connection and the AC source fuse or breaker. If this fails to correct the problem, contact your Columbia Dealer for
assistance.
Charger will automatically turn on and conduct a short self-test and battery pack test. The LED will flash in sequence
and then a trickle current will be applied to batteries until a minimum voltage is reached.
If the batteries meet the minimum voltage requirements of the charger, signifying they are serviceable (chargeable),
the charger enters the bulk charging (higher amperage-constant current) stage. The remote LED will be flashing short
green.
4-3
Figure 16
