top of page
Mainstreet Golf Cars

Switching Your Golf Car to a Lithium Battery

  • Apr 28
  • 3 min read

Updated: Apr 29

Upgrading to lithium improves performance and lifespan if your golf car is ready and it’s installed correctly.

Before reading this article, please see the following notes:

  • Always wear proper face and eye protection when working around batteries.

  • This information serves as a reference guideline; it's recommended to follow all manufacturer instructions.

  • Reader accepts all responsibility on serving their own golf car. Reader needs to know what they are doing and are fully capable of switching their batteries.



Is Your Golf Car Worth the Upgrade?

There are a few things to consider. How old is the golf car? What condition is the battery box frame and main frame? How are the front and rear suspension? Is the steering solid? What shape is the brake system in—cables, pedals, and brake shoes? How are the transaxle and motor? And lastly, how long are you planning to keep the car? These are all important questions to ask before making the switch.



Making The Switch

There’s more to switching lead-acid batteries with a lithium battery than you might think. Installing a lithium battery properly takes time and patience if you want it done right. You’ll need to figure out how to mount and secure the new battery, not just tying it down with bungee cords. You’ll also need to decide where to mount the charger if it’s an onboard unit, or where to drill your hole for the charging port if it’s off board. Then you need to figure out where to install the gauge -will it be in the battery compartment or on the dash?


Not all lithium batteries are created equal. Make sure you are installing a high-quality lithium battery with a built-in Battery Management System (BMS). The grade of lithium and the quality of components play a big role in how long the battery will last.


When making the switch, be sure your charger is compatible with lithium batteries. Lead-acid and AGM chargers will not work with lithium batteries. Each charger operates with a different algorithm, current flow, and amp output. You’ll also need to ensure you have the correct battery cables in the proper lengths. Most conversion kits should include everything needed for a proper installation.



The Most Important Thing

The most important thing that often gets overlooked is the loss of weight. Golf car suspensions are designed to carry 400 to 500 pounds of batteries, while a lithium battery typically weighs around 100 pounds. The loss of battery weight will cause the car to ride harder and not steer properly. To correct this, weight bars should be added, usually to the front suspension and near the center of the car. There are weight kits available that are designed specifically for this purpose.



After Installation

Once your upgrade is complete, you’ll also need to check your tire pressure. Usually, you will need to lower the pressure by a couple pounds.



We're Here to Help!

At Mainstreet Golf Cars, we’re here for the handy and the hopeful - if you’ve got a cigar box of tool, some ambition, and a little bit of handiness, we’ve got your back.


We know that there are people who like to work on their own stuff and can run into a dead end when it comes to repairing it. We fully understand that and are willing to help walk you through getting your golf car back up and running. 


We hope this free information will give you a better understanding of what your golf car is all about. Caring and sharing is old school, and that makes the world a better place!



If you have any questions, concerns, or need to talk through your electric golf car, give us a call. We would be more than happy to help with your needs!


Phone: 630.216.9272



 
 
bottom of page