Weekly an equalization charge is to be applied to the battery pack. This process balances the electrical charge in the
battery pack and will extend battery life. The following procedure is used to complete this.
Charge the battery pack allowing the Delta-Q Charger to go to green 100% charge.
Once the green LED lights unplug the power cord.
Wait approximately 30 seconds. Reconnect the power cord and allow the Delta-Q to complete a second charge
cycle.
If the vehicle is not to be used, leave power cord connected. The Delta-Q can test and recharge as needed.
4.3 BATTERY CLEANING
Acid-soaked debris on the battery terminal connections will cause current leakage, reduces battery efficiency, and
battery life.
Check that all vent caps are tightly in place. 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. Do not
allow solution to enter cap vent holes.
NOTICE: Follow local ordinances and codes for proper disposal of battery cleaning waste.
4.4 CONDITIONS WHICH AFFECT CHARGING
Always schedule enough charging time so the Delta-Q 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.
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.
If vehicle is used only occasionally, a refresher charge should be given prior to using.
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.
4.5 DELTA-Q BATTERY CHARGING
All current production Columbia 24/36/48 volt electric vehicles are built with a new solid state on-board, fully
automatic Delta-Q Battery Charger (Figure 4.5.1) as standard equipment. This section explains in more detail the
Delta-Q Charger Operations.
The Delta Q charge status can be found in two locations. On the Delta Q face and on a remote multicolored LED
(Figure 4-5.2). This LED and descriptive label will located near the Charger Receptacle.
4-4
Figure 4.5.1
Figure 4.5.2
2012 Summi
t
4-3
