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RMI Golf Carts Battery Tips
ELECTRIC GOLF CARS AND LEAD-ACID BATTERY CARE
A short check-list of how to take care of your electric golf car and its batteries, prepared by RMI Golf Carts
Batteries: “RMI’s Three Rules of Battery Maintenance”
Rule #1: “Keep ‘em Clean.” (Keep the top of the battery cases clean and dry. Sprinkle some baking soda on the cases and rinse them off when dirty with hose water; clean the green corrosion off the battery posts and cables with a wire brush whenever corrosion starts to form. Treat the posts with spray terminal protector, not “axle grease.”)
Rule #2: “Keep ‘em Watered.” (Check water once a month in each cell. DO NOT let the electrolyte level fall below the top of the “plates” inside the cell! Use distilled or reverse-osmosis filtered water if possible, to remove harmful minerals from the water you put into the batteries. Do your final water level check after the batteries are charged, and fill only to 1/8” below the bottom of the neck of the filler cap opening. Over-filling causes the electrolyte to be ejected through the battery caps on to the top of the battery case.)
Rule #3: “Don’t let ‘em Freeze.” (This means keeping the batteries charged. A fully-charged set won’t freeze until the temp falls to -92F. A discharged set will freeze at 19F above. The best care for an electric golf car is to play at least one round of golf every month. If you cannot take your golf car out in the winter, check your charger every 30 days for a “green light,” and force a charge cycle by unplugging the charger from the car and plugging it back in. Make sure your “run-tow switch” is on tow whenever the car is not in use!
Charging Frequency: “Charge your car only Three Times!”
With modern fully-automatic chargers, your batteries like to be charged, and there is little danger of over-charging your batteries. Charge your electric car three times: “SOON, OFTEN, …. and at EVERY OPPORTUNITY!” Lead-acid batteries do NOT have a “memory!” When you get a chance, “double charge” your batteries—run a second charge cycle before using your car. Manufacturers call it “equalization charging,” and it forces a full charge on every cell. (Normally the charger shuts down when the battery pack meets specifications, and one or more cells are left under-charged). If you can “equalize” once every month, you are “getting it done!”
New Batteries: “Season” with care!
New batteries like to be “seasoned” if possible. If you can, just play nine holes before charging. Repeat for several days. And then play no more than 18 before charging, for as many times as possible. Always charge your batteries after play. The batteries will get better and better “run time” capacity for the first 50-100 charge cycles. Finally, remember to bring your golf car in at least every two years for a “discharge test,” which will often detect a faulty battery before you have to replace the full battery set.
Troubleshooting an E-Z-Go Golf Cart
Golf Carts are now very common all around the world. They are used as multi-purpose vehicles. They were meant to commute players inside the golf course. But nowadays they are used in shopping malls, resorts, retirement communities etc. E-Z-Go electric golf cart is one among the best manufacturers of carts. But there may be issues affecting the operation of these carts. Some of the troubleshooting techniques are given below.
1. A sticky accelerator is a problem when the accelerator of the cart is in the pressed condition always. This can be checked by listening to a clicking sound. Once the engine is on and the accelerator is pressed, a clicking sound is produced. This sound is heard only when the accelerator is pressed. So if you hear the sound, when you are not pushing the accelerator, then it might be due to sticky accelerator. In such cases contact a good mechanic.
2. Do you experience low pulling torque or power while driving inclined roads? Then it might be due to loose battery connections or low power battery. Securing them tightly can solve the problem. If the battery is drained out, then its best to replace them.
3. Always make sure you maintain the tire pressure constant at the required level. A low tire pressure can reduce the mileage and increase the load on the engine. The recommended tire pressure of an E-Z-Go Golf Cart is between 18 and 22 PSI.
4. Maintenance of the battery is very essential. If properly maintained, a battery can last upto 5 or 6 years. Clean the battery terminals and casing once in a while. Also maintain an adequate level of water inside the battery cells. Use distilled water to refill, in case the water level is too low.
5. Examine all the connections to and from the battery and other electrical fittings. Any loose or faulty connection can lead to malfunctioning of the E-Z-Go Golf Cart. Make sure to tighten any loose contacts using a wrench.
Tips & Warnings
Always wear protective gloves and safety goggles before conducting any type of troubleshooting. Make sure not to over-inflate the tires. Never leave the lights and other battery powered accessories in the ON state. It can deplete the battery charge.
E-Z-GO Street Legal 2five given to Justin Bieber.
Check out E-Z-GO on the Ellen DeGeneres Show! She gave Justin Bieber an E-Z-GO 2Five for his birthday. Take a look at our Ellen Show photo album and visit this link to see the E-Z-GO 2Five as the Backstage Photo of the Week.
http://ellen.warnerbros.com/2011/02/backstage_photo_of_the_week_preparing_the_biebermobile_0209.php
What Year is My Harley & Colombia ParCar Golf Cart
What Year is My Harley & Colombia ParCar ® Golf Cart?
The following is a table showing identification numbers, type and model of Harley/Columbia ParCar Golf Carts.
| Model | Year | Type |
| 1963 -1969 | DXXXX | 3 Wheel Gas |
| DEXXX | 3 Wheel Electric | |
| 1970-1979 | Hx | |
| 3b | 3-Wheel Gas D3 | |
| 4B | 3-Wheel Electric DE3 | |
| 7C | 4 Wheel Gas D4 | |
| 8C | 4-Wheel Electric DE4 | |
| 8D | 4-Wheel Electric DE-40 76-78 | |
| 1980-1982 | Jx | |
| 3B | 3 Wheel Gas D3 | |
| 4B | 3-Wheel Electric DE3 | |
| 7C | 4 Wheel Gas D4 | |
| 3K | 4 Wheel gas D4 80's classic | |
| 8D | 4 Wheel electric MG1V Challenger | |
| 5K | 4 Wheel Gas DX4 '82 | |
| Columbia | ||
| 1983-1989 | C3-C9 | |
| 3B | 3-Wheel Gas D3 | |
| 4B | 3-Wheel Electric DE3 | |
| 5K | 4-Wheel Gas DX4 | |
| 6K | 4-Wheel Electric DEX4 | |
| 7K | Gas Utility | |
| 8K | Electric Challenger | |
| 9K | Electric Utility DE4 | |
| 2L | 4-Wheel Gas P4G | |
| 3L | 4-Wheel Electric P4E | |
| 1990-1995 | Dx | |
| 2L | 4-Wheel Gas P4G | |
| 3L | 4-Wheel Electric | |
| 5K | 4-Wheel Gas Classic | |
| 6K | 4-Wheel Electric Classic | |
| 7K | 4-Wheel Gas Utility | |
| 9K | 4-Wheel Electric Utility | |
| 2M | 4-Wheel Electric Shuttle | |
| 3M | 4-Wheel Gas Shuttle | |
| 1996- present | ||
| BE | 4-Wheel Gas | |
| 4E | 4-Wheel Electric | |
Gas vs Electric Powered Golf Carts
Application & Preference
When new customers come in they invariably ask, “What’s better, gas or electric?” My answer is always the same – it largely depends on how you plan to use your golf car and what your preferences are. These days, people get pretty creative with their golf carts so the intended uses can vary more than you might think. For the average user either type of golf car will make a perfectly fine recreational vehicle. Electric golf carts run nearly silently and have no fuels or oils to deal with, perfect for supporters of the green movement. Gas golf carts are a little more on the noisy side and will obviously require gas to operate - regular unleaded, to be exact.
Electric golf carts do depend on their batteries for power, so if you’re someone who wants to use your golf cart for hours upon hours at a time, you may want to stick with gas. This especially holds true for those that enjoy camping and RVing – if you don’t have access to power neither will your electric golf cart.
Another point that’s often forgotten is the amount of accessories you plan to install on your golf cart. If you want stereos, lighting, fans, heaters, etc. all of this takes a considerable amount of power. For an electric cart this energy comes right out of the same bank of batteries that your motor relies on. Gas golf cart accessories will also rely on battery power, however, they feature a starter/generator that will charge the battery on its own while the gas pedal is depressed. This doesn’t mean a gas golf cart battery is invincible - any accessories left on while the cart isn’t running will eventually kill your battery.
Performance
In the beginning, golf cars were designed to simply be what their name implies – cars for golfing. While either type of cart can easily haul you and a friend around most reasonable kinds of terrain there are other points to consider when making a decision – especially for those who expect (or demand) a little more.
With horsepower ratings ranging from 10-12 HP, gas golf cars are as much as 3-4 times more powerful than their electric counterparts. An electric golf cart, on average, will feature a 3-5 HP electric motor - but that’s not to say electric carts aren’t impressively powerful in their own right. Light hauling and yard work can be done with either type of vehicle and both will perform satisfactorily. However, those who demand power in off-road conditions with rugged terrain and steep inclines will almost always want to stick with gas power.
As we mentioned before, electric golf carts aren’t for those who wish to joy ride for hours a day. An electric cart will typically get around two hours of continuous motor run time before the batteries will need re-charging. This translates to anywhere between 18-25 miles depending on usage and the terrain – still pretty impressive. On the gas side of things manufacturers have made great strides in improving gas efficiency and the Yamaha Drive currently leads the pack in fuel economy by averaging nearly 29 MPG.
Aside from power sources and horsepower ratings, both types of vehicles operate in much the same fashion. To the untrained eye you couldn’t tell the two apart from each other and for the most part they both ride and handle the same. Both types of vehicles will get about 14-15 mph top-speed (unmodified).
Maintenance
All in all, both types of golf carts have fairly light requirements when it comes to maintenance. With electric carts your main concern lies within your batteries – make sure you check the water levels monthly (at least) and top-off as needed. The batteries are the life-blood of an electric car and with a replacement set costing well over $600 these days it’s not something you want to ignore. With proper maintenance of batteries and responsible charging habits you can expect to get 5-6 years (sometimes longer) of solid performance before they will need replacing. In comparison, neglecting your batteries can shorten their lifespan to as little as 1-2 years.
Gas golf carts, on the other hand, do require periodic oil changes as well as replacement air/fuel filters and spark plugs when necessary. For the do-it-yourselfer it’s pretty routine stuff if you don’t mind getting a little dirty. Filters are relatively inexpensive and golf cart motors take only a quart or so of 10W30 oil after every 250 hours of motor run time. The best way to stay on top of maintenance is to purchase and install an hour meter for the motor and with proper care a gas golf cart can last you a lifetime.
Summary
Now that you have a better idea of how both gas and electric golf cars operate, hopefully you’ll have an easier time making a decision. Keep in mind, this article is comparing “standard” golf carts. There are motor and controller upgrades out there to get the power of a gas golf car (and more) in electric form – though that is beyond the scope of this article.
Source: Diversified Golf Cars
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Energy effieciency report on golf carts
NEW REPORT UNCOVERS ENERGY EFFICIENCY OF GOLF CARTS
- Evaluation compares gas, electric and solar-assisted golf carts and shows electric golf carts
leading the way to better energy savings -
TORONTO, Oct. 20 /CNW/ - A new report, by the Sustainable Technologies Evaluation Program (STEP), a multi-agency program led by the Toronto and Region Conservation, is shedding new light on the energy efficiency of gas, electric and solar-assisted golf carts. The report, released today, determined that gas carts were on average over three times less fuel efficient than an electric golf cart. In real terms, the difference in fuel economy between a gas and electric golf cart is similar to that of a Hummer H3 SUV and a Toyota Prius Hybrid car.1 Findings show that electric carts have 85 per cent lower fuel costs and produce one-quarter of the emissions of gas carts. STEP also determined that a solar-assisted golf cart isn't the only solution when looking to reduce air pollution and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
"We started this study with the assumption that the solar-assisted golf carts would be best solution, but what we've found is that electric golf carts are actually a better investment for golf courses both financially and environmentally," said Ted Sherk, Project Co-ordinator, STEP, Toronto and Region Conservation. "The addition of solar panels to a golf cart can slightly improve performance and when we surveyed more than 50 golfers many thought the solar carts were a great idea which would help with a golf course's green image. But aside from being a marketing advantage, the data in this study shows that electric carts can provide energy savings at a lower cost than the solar-assisted carts, by simply maintaining the carts in good condition."
The team at STEP did a side-by-side field evaluation of two solar-assisted electric golf carts, two standard electric golf carts and two gas-powered golf carts at Bathurst Glen Golf Course in Richmond Hill, Ontario. Over a three month period, the study measured the carts energy use and associated Green House Gas (GHG) emissions, dependability, overall capital and operating cost, and golfer preference.
A solar-assisted cart might obtain an energy savings of 12 per cent over a conventional electric cart which is much less than manufacturer claims of 30-50 per cent. More importantly the study found that the energy consumed by the carts varied greatly, indicating that other factors relating to cart condition (e.g tire pressure, new bearings) or driver behaviour may be more important than the solar panels in determining overall energy consumption. The report concludes that a well-maintained electric cart, free of mechanical problems may offer better energy and financial savings than the purchase of solar panels.
"We supported this study because we felt it's important for golf courses in Canada to get a true picture of what they need to do to become more environmentally friendly, " Said Ryan McCutcheon, Bennett Golf Cars. "As manufacturers of golf carts we're always looking for the best approach to meet the needs of our clients, and it's interesting to see that going solar isn't the best way to go."
There are at least 179 golf courses within a 100 radius around Toronto, of which roughly 80 per cent are estimated to use electric carts, while the remaining use gas. According to the Sustainable Technologies Evaluation Program, if the 20 per cent were replaced with electric carts, this could reduce emissions by approx. 3.8 tonnes CO2 per day in an annual golf season, an amount roughly equivalent to taking 155 mid-sized gasoline cars off the road.
"The study is beneficial for golf course operators who are looking to green their operations in a cost-effective way," said Joe Petta, Manager, Bathurst Glen Golf Course. "We recently achieved Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program Certification, which is the highest level eco-certification a course can get for Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management. Our next step is to take the data from the golf cart study to begin moving forward with a plan to bring electric carts to our course."
The study was made possible by funding support from Bennett Golf Cars and TRCA municipal partners. The full report is available for download at http://www.sustainabletechnologies.ca
With more than 50 years of experience, TRCA helps people understand, enjoy and look after the natural environment. TRCA's vision is for The Living City - where human settlement can flourish forever as part of nature's beauty and diversity. For more information, call 416-661-6600 or visit us at .www.trca.on.ca
EZGO Introduces the 2Five™ LSV
(AUGUSTA, GA) — E-Z-GO®, a Textron (NYSE:TXT) Company, introduces the 2Five, its first street-legal vehicle designed for neighborhoods and public roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. The 2Five travels at speeds up to 25 mph and has a 48-volt AC electric powertrain, four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes, and an on-board charger among other standard features, providing the perfect balance of eco-inspired living, safety and convenience.
“E-Z-GO is excited to offer the 2Five as a convenient, fun and environmentally sound transportation alternative,” said Kevin P. Holleran, president of E-Z-GO. “The 2Five is a perfect vehicle option for neighborhood road travel, running errands and for those who lead an on-the-go lifestyle.”
The 2Five meets or exceeds standards mandated by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) as well as additional standards of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) for low-speed vehicles, or LSVs. LSVs must have a top speed of no more than 25 mph, and be equipped with certain additional features including a windshield, seat belts, mirrors and headlights and taillights. The vehicles are issued a vehicle identification number, like any automobile, and can be titled and operated by licensed drivers on most public roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less.
The 2Five includes four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes for superior braking and vehicle control. The windshield is automotive safety glass. Rearview mirrors provide the 2Five’s operator with clear sightlines to see nearby vehicles. A complete automotive lighting package, including headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals, provides for visibility and safety on public streets. Three-point seat belts are designed to protect front and rear passengers. Radial tires offer superior wear and stopping performance. Vehicle maintenance and performance warnings are displayed electronically on the dash to alert the driver on the operation of key vehicle systems. In addition, a “rabbit/turtle” switch on the dash conveniently limits the 2Five’s speed to 14 mph when conditions require lower speeds, or to prevent turf damage in instances when the 2Five is being used as a golf vehicle.
Eco-friendly features include a 48-volt, zero-emissions electric powertrain that uses AC current. The electric drivetrain lowers vehicle noise and eliminates use of hazardous fuel and oil, and the 2Five’s AC Drive system requires less energy to operate than traditional DC-powered electric vehicles. Regenerative braking puts energy back into the vehicle’s batteries whenever brakes are applied to maintain a quality driving experience between battery charges. An on-board solid-state battery charger is energy efficient and makes charging simple. The 2Five’s foam seating is made of 100 percent recycled material.
In addition, the 2Five offers a number of convenience features, including a state-of-charge meter that indicates the amount of power left in the batteries, a 12-volt accessory outlet to provide electrical charge for mobile phones, mp3 players and other devices while on the go, and ample vehicle storage, including four large cup holders, locking glove boxes, and a storage area under the rear seat of 4-passenger models (with an optional trunk accessory for 2-passenger models.)
Like all E-Z-GO vehicles, the 2Five is manufactured in Augusta, Ga., at E-Z-GO’s world headquarters, recently honored as one of the top 10 manufacturing facilities in North America by Industry Week magazine.
The 2Five is available for purchase at select dealers across the country. For more information or to locate your nearest authorized 2Five dealer, visit www.ezgo.com/2five. Facebook users can also join E-Z-GO’s Facebook community at www.facebook.com/4ezgo for more information.
EZGO Introduces Freedom® TXT® and Shuttle 2+2 TXT® Vehicles
(AUGUSTA, GA) — E-Z-GO, a Textron (NYSE:TXT) Company, announces the expansion of its line of personal vehicles with the introduction of the Freedom® TXT® and Shuttle 2+2 TXT®. These vehicles combine the classic styling and features of the E-Z-GO TXT platform with new powerplants and technology, including the choice of models equipped with either a 48-volt DC electric drivetrain or a 13 hp gas-powered Kawasaki® engine.
The Freedom TXT seats up to two people and is equipped with a golf-bag rack and sweater basket for easy transition from the course to community paths. With its rear-facing second bench seat, the Shuttle 2+2 TXT seats up to four people and can be outfitted with an optional four-bag attachment for golf use.
“E-Z-GO is pleased to offer these new models in our celebrated TXT vehicle line,” said Kevin Holleran, president of E-Z-GO. “The combination of proven TXT features and new powertrain technology will make the Freedom TXT and Shuttle 2+2 TXT vehicles a popular choice for consumers seeking stylish, fun and energy-efficient ways to move around their neighborhood paths.”
Electric models of the Freedom TXT and Shuttle 2+2 TXT feature a 48-volt DC drivetrain with E-Z-GO’s exclusive TruCourse Technology, which allows the vehicle owner to customize the vehicle’s speed, acceleration and other operating characteristics to meet their unique needs.
Gas-powered models are equipped with a 13 hp Kawasaki engine that delivers exceptional power and torque, while conserving fuel due to the engine’s single-cylinder design with a hemispheric combustion chamber. The engine meets all emissions standards of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board.
Both models retain the popular styling and proven features of the E-Z-GO TXT platform, including a welded tubular steel frame with powder-coat protection, scratch-resistant body panels, center-mounted cup, ball and tee holders, slip-resistant floormats, double-walled canopy and handle, and a walkaway braking alarm.
The Freedom TXT and Shuttle 2+2 TXT also feature headlights, tail lights, brake lights and horns. Electric models include a DC-to-DC converter to allow for optimal installation of additional powered accessories.
To meet the specific needs or style of any owner, the Freedom TXT and Shuttle 2+2 TXT can be customized with a wide variety of factory-installed options or E-Z-GO genuine parts and accessories, including alloy wheels, turn signals, weather enclosures, locking glove boxes, and chrome or stainless-steel brush guards and kickplates.
The Freedom TXT and Shuttle 2+2 TXT are manufactured in Augusta, Ga., at E-Z-GO’s world headquarters, recently honored as one of the top ten manufacturing facilities in North America by Industry Week magazine.
The Freedom TXT and Shuttle 2+2 TXT vehicles are available for purchase now from your local E-Z-GO authorized dealer. To locate your nearest dealer or learn more about the complete line of E-Z-GO light-transportation vehicles, please visit www.ezgo.com. To follow E-Z-GO news, events and announcements on Facebook, please visit www.facebook.com/4ezgo.
Golf cart battery care tips!
Weekly Battery Care Tips
Welcome to our 3rd weekly installment of Battery Care Tips presented by Standard Battery Inc.
- Lead acid batteries should be brought up to full charge at the earliest opportunity. Avoid continuously operating batteries in a partially charged condition. This will shorten their life and reduce their capacity.
- Extreme temperatures can substantially affect battery performance and charging. Cold reduces battery capacity and retards charging. Heat increases water usage and can result in overcharging. Very high temperatures can cause “thermal run-away” which may lead to an explosion of fire. If extreme temperature is an unavoidable part of an application, consult one of our specialists about ways to deal with the problem.
- Inactivity can be extremely harmful to all lead acid batteries. If seasonal use is anticipated, we recommend the following;
- Completely charge the battery before storing.
- Remove all electrical connections from the battery, including series or parallel connectors.
- Store the battery in as cool a place as possible. However, do not store in a location which will consistently be below 32°F. Batteries will discharge when stored, the lower temperature the lower the self discharge.
- When not in use, boost every two months.
