Do you want to upgrade your golf cart to lithium batteries but aren't sure what you will need? It is likely that you are replacing the lead-acid batteries that came with your vehicle in order to enjoy the benefits of lithium batteries if you are looking for lithium batteries for these vehicles. There are many lithium-ion golf cart battery options available, and choosing the right battery for your vehicle can make the conversion process easy. You should consider a few factors before choosing which lithium golf cart battery to install before you make the switch.

What size golf cart battery do I need?

Prior to upgrading to lithium batteries, verify the combined voltage of your golf cart's brand/model (usually 36V or 48V) and choose a battery that fits your golf cart. GC2/GC8 batteries are the most common lead-acid golf cart batteries. A 36v golf cart needs six 6-volt batteries, and a 48V cart needs six 8-volt batteries. Lead-acid batteries are available in 6, 8, or 12 volts, for example.

Check your owner's manual if you don't know the voltage. In addition, you can count the number of cells or caps in your current battery (3, 4, or 6). You can determine the battery voltage by multiplying that number by two. Calculate the voltage by multiplying the number of batteries in your cart by that number.

Determine your battery size requirements next. BSL typically recommends the B-LFP-48 battery. 48 volts and 100 amp-hours make it compatible with 48 volt golf carts. Like lead-acid batteries, they do not need to be connected in parallel, just determine your needs, for example, 100 amp-hours for 60 miles. Depending on your needs, we offer a variety of capacities.

How do I determine my state of charge?

Check your fuel level regularly with a fuel gauge. We have learned over time that voltage-based fuel gauges cannot accurately measure lithium-based chemistries. In order to calculate remaining amp-hours (percentage of 0-100%), we have developed a fuel gauge that receives real-time current data from all batteries connected in parallel.

Throughout the operation cycle, the fuel gauge will display several messages, including the number of detected cells, the state of charge (in percentages from 0-100%), a flashing "warning" message when the battery pack state of charge is below 20%, and a hint message when the battery pack state of charge is below 10%.

How do I charge a lithium battery?

Chargers are another item you will need to prepare when upgrading your vehicle to lithium batteries. Before we discuss our recommended battery chargers, there are a few things you need to confirm before purchasing one. By checking the voltage set points, you should first verify that the charging profile you are using or the charging profile on the charger is appropriate for lithium batteries. On our website, you can find documentation on lithium battery charging.

Lithium batteries and chargers with the correct algorithm will perform best. You should contact the manufacturer for guidance on how to properly charge a lithium battery if you are not sure about the charger or if there is an algorithm available.

Do I need a battery stand?

It is possible to use a battery spacer with lithium-ion drop-in solutions in the same GC2 size as lead-acid batteries. Battery spacers are used when installing a drop-in replacement battery, such as BSL's B-LFP48V-100Ah battery. You can use your vehicle's existing battery mounts by filling the empty spot with a battery spacer. By doing so, you ensure that your battery is properly secured while making installation easier.

Now you know what you need to upgrade your equipment to BSL lithium batteries. A 48V product kit provides everything you need for a golf cart lithium battery conversion. This kit includes one 48V battery, one battery holder (for mounting the battery), a fuel gauge, a conversion harness, and a BSL approved charger for fast charging in two hours. Our battery experts are available to answer any questions you may have.