Charging Batteries - Club Car 2009-20011 Electric Precedent Maintenance And Service Manual

18
Battery Charger – Ferroresonant
WARNING
• Do not allow clothing, blankets, or other material to cover the charger.
• Do not allow the charger to operate for more than 30 minutes at 19 or more amperes.
• Install surge arrestors on incoming AC power lines. Surge arrestors will help protect electrical
components in the charger and on the vehicle from all but direct or close lightning strikes.
NOTE: Because the vehicle's onboard computer (OBC) has a storage charge feature that automatically checks
and recharges the batteries as necessary every 15 days, the charger can remain plugged to the vehicle
throughout the storage period.
At one hour and at two hours into the charge cycle, the charger will shut off in order to run a self-diagnostic
program (ammeter will drop to zero). Charging will resume in a few moments (ammeter returns to previous
rate of charge).
The charger supplied with the electric vehicle resolves the most common problems associated with battery charging.
Undercharging and overcharging are prevented provided the charger is allowed to shut off by itself. Also, all cells are
automatically given an equalization charge at low current, which prolongs battery life. Batteries should never be left in a
discharged state, as this too affects the internal components and can reduce the capacity of the battery. The batteries
should be charged every day they are used. However, the batteries should not be charged if they have not been used.
Each electric vehicle is supplied with a fully automatic battery charger as standard equipment. The AC cord to each
charger is to be connected to a source capable of supplying 15 amperes minimum per charger.
To reduce the risk of electric shock, the battery charger must be grounded. The charger is equipped with an AC electric
cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding type plug. The AC plug must be connected to an
appropriate receptacle that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with the National Electrical Code and all
local codes and ordinances. See the owner's manual supplied with the charger for specific operating instructions
before using the charger.
The use of an extension cord with the charger should be avoided. If an extension cord must be used, use a
three-conductor no. 12 AWG (American Wire Gauge) or no. 14 SWG (British Standard Wire Gauge), heavy-duty cord
with ground, properly wired and in good electrical condition. Keep it as short as possible (no more than 12 feet (3.7
m)). Place all cords so they will not be stepped on, tripped over, or otherwise subject to damage or stress.
Ensure that the charger ventilation slots are unobstructed and that there is adequate ventilation.

CHARGING BATTERIES

WARNING
• Be sure all wire connections at the receptacle and the fuse link are clean and tight.
• Do not rock or bend the plug. To connect the charger plug to the vehicle receptacle, grasp the plug
handle and push the plug straight into the receptacle (Figure 18-9, Page 18-23).
• Do not pull on the DC cord (Figure 18-10, Page 18-23). Do not twist, rock or bend the plug. To
disconnect the charger plug from the vehicle receptacle, grasp the plug by the handle and pull the
plug straight out of the receptacle.
WARNING CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Page 18-22 2009-2011 Electric Precedent Maintenance and Service Manual
BATTERIES