I’m having a little trouble with my 36v Club Car golf cart. Recently, I’ve been facing a frustrating issue where my batteries are consistently being overcharged. It’s got me worried about the long-term damage this might cause. Has anyone else run into this problem? I’m desperate for some advice on how to fix it.
Response:
I encountered a similar problem with my Club Car. In my case, it turned out to be an issue with the charger’s relay. I had to rewire and reconnect it, and that seemed to do the trick. Maybe you should give that a shot.
Solutions that Worked for Users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rewire and Reconnect Charger Relay | 1 | $0 – $30 (DIY) | 30 – 60 |
| Replace Charger | 1 | $100 – $300 | 60 – 120 |
Symptoms
- The charger fails to shut off automatically, leading to overcharged batteries.
- Higher than normal voltage readings post-charging.
Possible Causes
- A malfunctioning or improperly wired charger relay.
- Charger incompatibility or internal faults.
Solutions that Worked
1. Rewire and Reconnect Charger Relay
What I Did: I took apart the charger and rewired the relay, ensuring all connections were correct. Outcome: The charger began functioning properly, shutting off at the appropriate voltage. Personal Experience: This solution effectively resolved the overcharging issue. Steps:
- Safety First: Disconnect the charger from power and the cart.
- Access the Relay: Open the charger casing to locate the relay.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for any signs of wear, damage, or incorrect wiring.
- Rewire Correctly: Follow a wiring diagram specific to your charger model to ensure correct rewiring.
- Secure Connections: Double-check all connections for security and proper alignment.
- Test the Charger: Reconnect the charger to the cart and monitor the charging process to ensure it shuts off at the right voltage. Expert Tip: Regularly inspect your charger for any signs of wear or damage. A well-maintained charger not only prolongs battery life but also ensures safety.
2. Replace Charger
What I Did: Opted for a new charger compatible with my 36v Club Car. Outcome: The new charger worked flawlessly, preventing any overcharging. Personal Experience: This was a straightforward solution to the overcharging problem. Steps:
- Choose the Right Charger: Research and select a charger that is compatible with your cart model.
- Remove the Old Charger: Safely disconnect and remove the existing charger.
- Install the New Charger: Carefully install the new charger, ensuring all connections are correct and secure.
- Test for Functionality: Charge your cart and observe if the new charger stops at the appropriate voltage. Expert Tip: When selecting a new charger, consider one with advanced features like automatic shut-off and battery conditioning capabilities. These features can significantly extend the life of your batteries.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked
- 1985 36v Club Car
- 36v EZGO (Western) (specific model year not mentioned)