The Club Car batteries need replaced! Decided to try out the 8v Batteries from Die Hard – Advance Auto Parts – Thinking about converting to lithium here in the future but this should work well for now.
Battery Swap in My 2018 Club Car Tempo Golf Cart: Die Hard Batteries
Owning a 2018 Club Car Tempo golf cart has been a fantastic experience, offering both convenience and functionality. However, after a few years, it became apparent that my battery setup was no longer up to par. Initially, I had two Crown batteries and four other batteries from 2018, but they would frequently go dead despite regular maintenance. After researching and considering various options, I decided to swap them out for (6) 8V 160 Amp Hour Die Hard Batteries from Advance Auto Parts. Here’s a detailed guide on the process and my experience.
Why Die Hard Batteries?
Many golf cart enthusiasts recommend T875 Trojan or Crown Batteries, known for their reliability and longevity. However, I opted for Die Hard batteries from Advance Auto Parts for a few key reasons:
Cost-Effectiveness: I managed to secure a better deal on these batteries, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Availability: Advance Auto Parts had these in stock, ensuring I could get them quickly and easily.
Preparation for Battery Swap
Before beginning the swap, I gathered all the necessary tools and materials:
- Gloves and safety glasses (I forget to use)
- A wrench set
- Battery cleaner and a wire brush
- Distilled water and a battery water filler
- A voltmeter
- Die Hard 8V 160 Amp Hour batteries
Step-by-Step Battery Swap Process
- Ensure the golf cart is turned off and the parking brake is engaged. Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any acid spills or splashes.
- Disconnect the Batteries: Start by disconnecting the negative terminal first, followed by the positive terminal. This prevents any accidental short circuits.
- Remove the Old Battery Wiring: Carefully remove the old batteries from the battery compartment. They are heavy
- Clean the Battery Tray and Cables: Use a battery cleaner and wire brush to clean any corrosion from the battery tray and cables. This ensures a good connection for the new batteries.
- Install the New Batteries: Place the Die Hard batteries into the compartment, ensuring they are properly aligned and secure. Connect the batteries in series to achieve the 48V system. Attach the positive terminal first, followed by the negative terminal.
- Check Connections and Test: Use a voltmeter to check the overall voltage of the new setup. This should read around 50 volts. Ensure all connections are tight and secure. Turn on the golf cart to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Maintaining Your New Batteries
Proper maintenance is crucial to extending the lifespan of your new batteries:
Water Levels: Keep the water level about 1/2 inch above the plates in each battery cell. Use only distilled water to avoid contamination.
Charging: Regularly charge the batteries using a reliable charger. I highly recommend the Amazon charger, which offers various options for charging different batteries at different voltages. It’s versatile and user-friendly.
Considering the Future: Lithium-Ion Batteries
While the Die Hard batteries are an excellent choice for now, I’m already thinking about the future. Lithium-ion batteries offer several advantages over traditional lead-acid batteries:
Longer Lifespan: Lithium batteries typically last longer and require less maintenance.
Weight Reduction: They are significantly lighter, improving the performance and efficiency of the golf cart.
Efficiency: Lithium batteries charge faster and provide consistent power output.
I’m considering upgrading to one or two 105AH lithium batteries in the future. This upgrade could provide even better performance and longevity, making it a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion
Swapping the batteries in my 2018 Club Car Tempo golf cart was a straightforward process that has significantly improved its performance. By opting for Die Hard batteries from Advance Auto Parts, I balanced cost and efficiency. However, with the ongoing advancements in battery technology, a future upgrade to lithium-ion batteries could offer even greater benefits. If you’re considering a similar upgrade, ensure you weigh all your options and choose the best solution for your needs.
If you have any suggestions or experiences with golf cart battery swaps, feel free to share them in the comments. Happy driving!
