Golf carts usually run on six batteries, depending on your cart type. The batteries provide the required charge to propel the cart on the course for a complete round. Wiring configuration affects golf cart batteries’ performance and lifespan. The wiring of golf cart batteries differs from that of an automobile because they are installed in a bank— assembly of multiple batteries. Wiring golf cart batteries can become a daunting task if you haven’t done it before. In this article, you will learn how to wire golf cart batteries for better battery management.
Golf Cart Battery Wiring
Modern electric golf carts typically have the best 6-volt, 8-volt, or 12-volt deep cycle batteries that offer incredible performance. These batteries are connected in series to create a high-voltage system that is the only power source for the golf cart’s motor. Wiring golf cart batteries in series is done by connecting the positive terminal to the negative of the next battery. This configuration creates a continuous flow of electricity from the first battery to the last, providing the necessary voltage to propel the cart.
Series Vs. Parallel Golf Cart Wiring
Series and parallel wiring are two different concepts for connecting multiple batteries to power the cart’s electric motor. The main difference between series and parallel wiring is the impact on the output voltage and capacity of the battery system. When batteries are wired in series, voltage is added together, while when they are wired in parallel, capacity is enhanced. It is important to note here that the total energy of the system remains the same, irrespective of the wiring configuration.
For instance, connecting three 6V batteries with capacities of 100 Ah in series will result in a voltage of 36V with a 100 Ah capacity. On the other hand, a parallel setup will output 6 volts with a capacity of 600 Ah. Both systems have a total available energy of 3600 watt-hours (watt-hours = volts x amp-hours).
Wiring Golf Cart Batteries in Series
A golf cart series wiring configuration has the batteries connected end-to-end, i.e., the positive terminal of one battery connects to the negative terminal of the next battery.
The remaining positive and negative wires/terminals are connected to the motor or battery pack of the golf cart. This results in a higher battery voltage, which provides more power to the cart’s motor. However, the capacity (amp-hours) remains the same as a single battery.
Here is a 48V battery wiring diagram in series:
Wiring Golf Cart Batteries in Parallel
Parallel wiring in golf carts involves connecting all of the positive terminals together and all of the negative terminals together. As a result of this configuration, the motor runs longer with a higher amp-hour capacity while maintaining the voltage output of a single battery.
Note: Series wiring is used in applications where higher speed and more power are required. On the other hand, the parallel wiring application is used in the long run.
How to Wire Golf Cart Batteries: Step-by-Step Guide
Here are the materials you will need for wiring golf cart batteries:
- A set of deep-cycle batteries
- Golf cart battery cable set
- A battery cable cutter and crimper
- Battery terminal covers
- Wire brush and cleaner
- Terminal protection spray
Follow these steps to wire golf cart batteries:
Step 1: Disconnect the Batteries
Before beginning the wiring process, it is crucial to disconnect the batteries from the golf cart. Start by turning off the ignition switch and removing the key.
Step 2: Prepare the Batteries
Ensure that all batteries are fully charged and clean. Use a wire brush and cleaner to remove any corrosion from the battery terminals. Apply terminal protection spray to prevent corrosion in the future.
Step 3: Determine the Battery Layout
The battery layout for your golf cart will depend on the model and make. Refer to the owner’s manual to determine the correct layout for your specific golf cart.
Step 4: Connect the Batteries
Start by connecting the positive terminal of the first battery to the negative terminal of the second battery using a battery cable. Connect the positive terminal of the second battery to the negative terminal of the third battery, and so on, until all batteries are connected in series.
Step 5: Connect the Last Battery to the Golf Cart
Connect the positive terminal of the last battery in the series to the positive terminal of the golf cart’s motor. Connect the negative terminal of the last battery to the negative terminal of the golf cart’s motor.
Step 6: Test the System
After completing the wiring, it is essential to test the system to ensure that it is working correctly. Turn on the ignition switch and check that the golf cart’s motor is running smoothly.
Read Also: How much is a golf cart?
How do you wire a 36V and 48V golf cart in series versus parallel wiring?
You can wire 36V and 48-volt batteries in series or parallel. Battery sequence usually depends on your golf cart’s needs. Depending on the volt system of your cart, you may need different sets of batteries. Here are some examples:
- Wiring a single 12-volt battery for a 12 Volt golf cart
- Wiring 3 * 12-volt batteries for a 36 Volt golf cart
- Wiring 6 * 6V batteries for a 36 Volt golf cart
- Wiring for 4 * 12 V batteries for a 48 Volt golf cart.
- And wiring 6 * 8V batteries for a 48 Volt golf cart
36V and 48V golf cart wiring (series vs. parallel)
Both golf cart batteries have the same process but different implementations for series and parallel wiring. Here’s how you can wire them.
Series Wiring:
- Firstly, disconnect the golf cart battery from the charger and any other electric device.
- Connect the battery cable and take the positive terminal of the 1st battery to the negative terminal of the second battery, and so on in series.
- After that, connect the positive terminal of the first battery and the negative terminal of the last battery to the golf cart’s motor and electric system.
- Lastly, reconnect the charger and any other electric device.
Parallel Wiring:
- First of all, disconnect the golf cart battery from the charger and also other electronic devices.
- Now, connect the battery cable from the positive terminal of the first battery to the positive terminal of the second battery.
- Continue connecting until all the batteries are connected in parallel.
- Now, connect the negative terminal of the first battery to the negative terminal of the last.
- After that, connect the positive terminal of the first battery and the negative terminal of the last battery to the golf cart’s motor and electric system.
- Now, plug in the charger and other electric devices.
Wiring Golf Cart Batteries Diagrams
Club Car Golf Cart Batteries Wiring Diagram
Yamaha Golf Cart Batteries Wiring Diagram
EZGO Golf Cart Batteries Wiring Diagram
Tips for Maintaining Golf Cart Batteries
To keep your golf cart batteries in good condition, follow these tips:
- Charge the batteries regularly, preferably after each use.
- Check the water levels in the acid batteries regularly and add distilled water as needed.
- Clean the battery terminals and cables regularly to prevent corrosion.
- Replace the acid batteries as soon as they show signs of wear or damage.
If you want to learn more about taking care of your cart battery, read our article “How to maintain golf cart batteries.”
Conclusion
Wiring golf cart batteries may seem daunting, but it is a relatively simple process that can be done with the right tools and instructions. Follow the steps outlined above to wire your golf cart batteries correctly and maintain them properly for maximum efficiency and longevity.
