How to Test EPIC Battery Discharge

Discharge tests can identify many common problems with EPIC Carts batteries. Read how to complete an EPIC Carts battery discharge test.

Criteria: For Lead-Acid/AGM

For 6 volt batteries, if the set discharges <60min, replace any battery ≤ 5.0V.

For 8 volt batteries, if the set discharges<60 min, replace any battery ≤ 7.0V.

Tools Needed:

1. Battery discharger (We recommend Lester Battery Discharger 36/48V model17770)
2. Digital Multimeter

Facts:

Failed discharge voltage should add up to 42V or less. Discharger runtime will not exceed 60 min.  Battery discharge test has to be done while batteries are wired in series. Completely dead battery sets will not turn the onboard charger on.

Fully charge vehicle prior to testing. Make sure the charger has turned off. (Check water level in lead-acid batteries prior to)

1. Battery on-charge voltages must be 60V or higher prior to testing.
2. Connect discharger positive clamp to main positive lead from cart to battery.
3. Connect the discharger ground clamp to the main ground lead to the cart battery.
4. Discharger should immediately display total battery pack voltage (48-52V).
5. Press the start button on the battery discharger. This applies the load to the battery pack.
6. Observe pack voltage under load. The discharger will start to beep if pack voltage reaches 42.5V and remove the load from the battery pack. You may see voltage spike back up to 48V or 52V. This is a false voltage reading known as a surface charge.
7. Press the start button again on the battery discharger. Then use a multimeter to record voltage on each battery while under load. Please refer to battery test criteria above.
8. Then record discharger run-time (60min or less).
9. Failed discharge pack voltage should not exceed 42V.
10. If total voltage is more than 42V at 60 min batteries have passed the test.