Forum Discussion

rodwha's avatar
rodwha
Explorer
Nov 17, 2016

Batteries

It seems running two golf cart batteries in a series is the way to fill my two battery compartments (when I get them). I see they run slightly larger than a more typical 12 volt. I assume these fit the standard housings just fine?

I've read good things about lithium batteries. How do these compare?

What are good quality batteries for the money? Any to avoid? I noticed a six pack for just $100 so I assume these are likely not that good as a single lower grade (215 ah) Duracell costs that. How about the Interstate 2300 with 242 ah at 65 lbs? At ~$180/ea I'd feel good about these. Great vehicle batteries.
  • I'm guessing carbon foam is also cost prohibitive like lithium?
  • The newest kid of the block is carbon foam. It can be taken down to 20% state of charge and offers 1000 cycles to that depth. No sulphation so can be partial charged without damage!
  • coolmom42 wrote:
    Trojan T-105 golf cart batteries. They will last for many years if you take care of them.

    +1

    This is where you want to go.
  • I was shown the price for several lithium batteries. WAY TOO MUCH!

    We do not have a Sam's or Costco membership (or store nearby).

    I wondered, as I don't see anything on having to replace or modify a battery housing to work with the 6 volt golf cart batteries, if they'd work in most any circumstance. Apparently not and something I'll obviously find out about the time I'm back to purchase.

    The "six pack" was a deal for six batteries. The price was ridiculously cheap.
  • rodwha wrote:
    It seems running two golf cart batteries in a series is the way to fill my two battery compartments (when I get them). I see they run slightly larger than a more typical 12 volt. I assume these fit the standard housings just fine?
    .


    you assume incorrectly, possibly.
    bumpy
  • Trojan T-105 golf cart batteries. They will last for many years if you take care of them.
  • An 18650 is essentially an LED/ Laser flashlight battery. 3.7v@ 3000ma. I'm holding one in my hand.

    OP- Whats a "Six Pac" ?

    $180 seems steep for a Duracell (They're kinda so-so). See of you have a Battery Systems store around you and ask what the going price for the various Trojans (-105, -125, -145) is these days. I bought 4ea T-145 @~$150ea. 2 years ago. Another 10lb heavier and +35ah @ 20A draw more current.
  • The best "bang for the buck" in golf cart batteries are at Costco or Sams Club.

    3 of the best lithium ion cells (size 18650) will provide about 12V for 3 amp hours and cost about $20. For 242 Ah you would need about 80 sets of 3 or $1,600. Then you would have to assemble the pack. You would also need a special charger.
  • If your off grid a lot and have solar in a large quantity and can mount the lithium in a inside temp controlled area maybe . Oh and have more money than you reasonably need, lithium might be for you .read the 12 volt side of life and look up the blogs of technomadia and wheeling it who both have lithium and solar setups probably 10 grand .... no one answer you get here will answer your questions but these sources have info you need to read for a better understanding.
    Measure your space then look at the dimensions posted for all the batteries you listed