The primary concern in the designing of a battery is the purpose for which it is used. For example, the construction of car batteries is on the basis of giving a lot of amps for a short period of time. If they give thrust and cranking power, the car alternator will take over for the remaining power requirement. Duration is never a concern in the construction of car batteries. In case of RV batteries the situation is exactly the opposite. They are designed for a deep discharge and steady and slow drawing of amps for a long duration. Different types of batteries are designed for different purposes. Choose the right battery to exactly address your individual specifications and purposes.
8 Volt Golf Cart Batteries vs 6 Volt
Those who prefer 8 volt golf cart batteries over their 6 volts counterparts may have some specific reasons. With 8 volt batteries, the initial cost is comparatively less. The total number of the individual batteries in the pack would be less, reducing the overall weight of the battery pack. As a result, you get increased speed and torque. But because of the use of heavier but less sturdy electrolyte plates in 8 volt batteries, you have restricted recharge capabilities reducing the overall life of the batteries. Also the use of less lead in 8 volt batteries seriously affects the range of the cart.
A brief glimpse of the popular brands would illustrate the available features of the 8 volt batteries in the market today. ‘Trojan Batteries’ has at least three popular models, T-875, T-860 and T-890. All have a minimum cycle life of 650. T-875 is the most sought after model with 145 AH followed by T-860 with less amp hours of 125 AH and T-890 with more amp hours of 155 AH. 95% of the 8 volt batteries used in golf carts today is from Trojans. ‘US Batteries’ also has impressive 8 volt golf cart batteries. It also offers 650 cycles or more for its batteries. Its 8VGCE-XC with 171 AH, 8VGC-XC with 170 AH and 8VGCHC-XC with 183 AH are the available variations in the market. US 8 volt golf cart batteries are quite good and cost comparatively less than Trojans and come with an attractive warranty. E4800 8V form ‘Exide Battery’ is another good vibration resistant, durable model in the market. Built with thick lead antimony grids and high density oxide it claims increased cycling capability. Its tough polypropylene container and heavy rubber separator resist damage to battery. ‘Interstate Batteries’ goes by the standard CCA and RC ratings, with slightly increased cranking power in its design of 8 volt batteries. Signature Edition-4 of Club Car Battery offers user friendly features such as battery condition indicator and single point watering mechanism for easy maintenance.
You must buy the right battery for your cart considering many factors. Choose your batteries on the basis of their charging capabilities, capacity of motor, controller and other components. Select a battery with least weight and a minimum cycle life of 650 to 700. Since golf cart batteries are connected in a long series string, balance all your batteries with identical voltage to avoid damage. Check for the date code. The long storage time seriously affects the performance of the batteries. Check the terms of the warranty like duration, total free replacement, pro-rate replacement clause etc.
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