Self-Discharge; Water Level; Vibration Damage; Mineral Content - Club Car Precedent 2014 Maintenance And Service Manual

20
Battery

SELF-DISCHARGE

Dirt and battery acid can provide a path for a small current draw that slowly discharges the battery. To minimize
self-discharge, the battery should always be kept clean.
Hot weather also has an effect on a battery's self-discharge rate. The higher the temperature, the quicker a battery
will discharge. In hotter climates the battery should be checked more often. When storing the battery, keep in a cool
place. See Battery Storage on page 20-32.

WATER LEVEL

The water level should be checked semi-annually to be sure water is at the proper level (Figure 20-32, Page 20-30).
Never allow the water level to fall below the tops of the plates because this will cause the exposed part of the plate to
become permanently inactive. Check the water level more frequently in hot weather or when the battery becomes old.
1
1. Level Indicator 2. Cap 3. Plates
Electrolyte level at least 1/2 inch (13 MM) above plates or to
level indicator.
22
Figure 20-32 Battery Water Level

VIBRATION DAMAGE

The battery hold-down clamp should always be tight enough to keep the battery from bouncing. Battery life may be
severely shortened if the clamp is too loose. Excessive vibration shortens the life of the battery. It may also cause acid
to leak out of the vent caps and corrosion to build up on surrounding metal parts. The acid which is lost reduces the
capacity of the battery and cannot be replaced.

MINERAL CONTENT

For the longest battery life, distilled water should be used in the battery; however, if tap water is going to be used,
contact your local water department to be sure mineral contents are below the levels listed in the following table. See
following NOTE.
NOTE: Contact your local water department for mineral content analysis.
TABLE CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Page 20-30 2014 Precedent
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® Golf Car Maintenance and Service Manual
ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS (GASO-
LINE VEHICLE)