Long-Term Storage

For winter storage or extended periods of non-use, the following procedures will help maintain the batteries in good condition:

Neutralizing Battery Acid and Cleaning
During a charging cycle, the batteries release hydrogen gas, water, and acid droplets into the air that eventually find their way onto other components. Over time, those droplets, if left alone, will cause damage to the frame and anything else they touch. Before working on the batteries, use a battery acid neutralizer and remove battery corrosion on the batteries by spraying them with a mixture of sodium bicarbonate and water. Use a plastic spray bottle with the following mixture:

Two teaspoons (10ml) of baking soda + 1 quart (liter) of water

Steps for neutralizing and cleaning your batteries:

Cover other electrical components before you spray and clean them.
Make sure all vent caps are closed tightly.
First, neutralize and allow the mixture to sit for at least 3 minutes.
Use a cloth or soft bristle brush to wipe down the batteries (top and sides).
Rinse the batteries off with clean water to remove the neutralizing solution.
Dry with a cloth.
Clean the battery terminals with a battery post and terminal cleaner.
Spray terminals with a battery terminal protector.
Reconnect the battery terminals.

Battery Watering
Golf cart batteries need the correct level of electrolytes to properly perform the chemical process of creating electricity. The solution that creates electricity consists of electrolytes and water. Batteries consume a considerable amount of water over their lifespan due to the charging process.
Overfilling or having too little water in your battery cells can negatively affect the batteries. Too much water will cause the electrolytes to overflow during the charging process. To prevent overfilling, use a golf cart battery watering system or a watering gun. Both options are fast and accurate because they automatically stop filling the batteries when the appropriate level is achieved. Too little water in the battery will cause sulfation, which is a direct result of the lead plates not being covered by water during the charging process. Sulfation will cause permanent damage to the lead plates.
The proper time to fill the cells up with water to the correct level (½” above the plates and ¼” to ⅜” below the vent) is after the batteries have been charged. The charging process increases the electrolyte level, and that is why it is best to add water to the correct level after charging. The exception is when the plates are not covered by water.
In that case, add just enough water to cover the plates, charge the batteries fully, and then continue to add water to the correct level. Do NOT use regular tap water to fill your batteries. It contains contaminates that can cause damage. Distilled water is recommended.

Battery Testing
A hydrometer is recommended for testing the state of charge for each battery cell. The hydrometer measures the density of the electrolyte by way of its gravity. A higher specific gravity indicates a denser electrolyte and a higher state of charge.

Battery Replacement
When it is time to replace your batteries, it is best to replace all of them at the same time. If you put a new battery in with an older pack of batteries, the old batteries will reduce the life of the new battery. Since the older batteries take longer to charge, the new battery gets overcharged and damaged.

Tire Pressure
Check the tire pressure frequently to maintain the recommended level. Partially deflated tires consume more energy, reduce the cart’s range, and wear out the tires faster. You will find the recommended pressure on the tire’s sidewall. If you use your cart mainly on streets, purchase street-legal tires with tread. Balloon Turf Tires wear out sooner and do not stop well on wet roads. Have a trained technician inspect your vehicle’s front wheel alignment, camber, and toe-in. Proper toe-in ensures the front wheels are pointing slightly inward to reduce wear.

Brakes
Most golf carts can travel at speeds between 20-25 mph, making an efficient and functioning braking system an absolute necessity. Inspect the brake shoes, cables, and hydraulic brake fluid semiannually.

Lights
For street-legal golf carts equipped with a light package, check turn signals, brake lights, and headlights frequently. If all your lights are not working, inspect the 12-volt fuse first. Consult the owner’s manual for the fuse location.

Lubrication Schedule
Consult your golf cart manual for specific lubrication recommendations. The Club Car manual, as an example, recommends lubricating the front suspension quarterly. Check your rear axle differential. It has oil in it just like a car. Remove the plug and put your finger in it and see if you draw oil. Fill it with a grease gun.

Mirrors
Many street-legal carts have side mirrors and wink mirrors on the windshield. Secure the thumb screws to make sure they stay in place.

Steering Wheel
The steering wheel rack and pinion should be greased annually. Inspect the steering yoke system to make sure all bolts are tight.

Gauges
State of charge meters measure the charge left in your batteries. As the batteries get older, these gauges are less accurate. Use a battery load tester to get an accurate reading.