Sun Mountain golf carts typically use 12V deep-cycle batteries in series configurations (36V, 48V) to meet their power demands. Lead-acid types (FLA, AGM) are factory standards, but lithium-ion (LiFePO4) drop-in replacements like Redway’s 12V 100Ah model offer longer cycles and weight savings. Key specs: 750+ CCA for lead-acid, 2000+ cycles for lithium. Always confirm tray dimensions (e.g., 10.3″ L x 7.1″ W) and terminal orientation before purchasing.
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What are the power requirements for Sun Mountain golf carts?
Sun Mountain carts run on 36V or 48V systems built from three or four 12V batteries. Motors draw 20–50A during uphill climbs, demanding batteries with 180–300Ah total capacity. Lead-acid types require 50% depth of discharge (DoD) limits, while lithium handles 80–100% DoD. Pro Tip: Test voltage sag under load—lithium maintains >12V at 50A, lead-acid drops to 10.5V.
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Sun Mountain’s C3.5 and H2 models use 48V systems drawing 30A continuous. A 48V 100Ah lithium pack delivers 4.8kWh versus 2.4kWh for lead-acid at 50% DoD. For example, replacing four 12V 100Ah FLA batteries with four LiFePO4 units boosts runtime from 25 to 55 miles. Always check controller compatibility—some older carts lack lithium-ready voltage cutoffs. Transitional phrase: Beyond voltage matching, consider thermal performance. Lithium operates at -20°C to 60°C versus lead-acid’s 0–40°C range.
Lead-acid vs. lithium: Which suits Sun Mountain carts best?
Lithium-ion batteries outperform lead-acid in lifespan (8+ vs. 3 years), weight (60% lighter), and efficiency (95% vs. 80%). Lead-acid remains cheaper upfront ($500 vs. $1500 for 48V systems) but loses value with frequent replacements. Pro Tip: Lithium’s flat discharge curve ensures consistent speed on hills.
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For moderate users (10 rounds/month), lead-acid works if maintained. Heavy users (30+ rounds) benefit from lithium’s durability. A Sun Mountain cart climbing a 15% grade with 500 lbs load requires 3kW—lead-acid sags to 44V, reducing torque, while lithium holds 48V. Transitional phrase: However, budget matters. Lithium’s TCO (total cost of ownership) is lower over 5 years despite higher initial cost. But what if you’re upgrading an older model? Verify BMS compatibility to avoid voltage mismatches.
| Feature | Lead-Acid | Lithium |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Life | 500 | 2000+ |
| Weight (48V) | 130 lbs | 55 lbs |
| Charge Time | 8h | 3h |
How to size a replacement battery?
Match the cart’s voltage and tray size. Measure existing battery dimensions—Sun Mountain trays fit Group GC2 (10.3″ L) or GC8 (13″ L). For lithium, prioritize capacity (Ah) over CCA. A 48V system needs four 12V 100Ah batteries (lead-acid) or one 48V 100Ah lithium pack. Pro Tip: Use lithium’s 100% DoD—size down 30% vs. lead-acid.
For example, a cart using four 12V 75Ah FLA batteries (36Ah usable) can switch to a single 48V 50Ah lithium unit (50Ah usable). Transitional phrase: But how do you ensure compatibility? Check BMS continuous discharge ratings—50Ah lithium must sustain 100A peaks. Undersized BMS units trigger overload shutdowns mid-round.
Are direct-fit lithium upgrades available?
Yes. Redway’s 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 (10.2″ x 6.9″ x 8.5″) fits most Sun Mountain trays. It includes built-in BMS for temperature/voltage protection. Pro Tip: Upgrade wiring to 4AWG when switching to lithium—reduces resistance losses.
For older carts, confirm voltage thresholds. A 2015 Sun Mountain C3.5 with a 44V low-cutoff won’t work with lithium’s 48V nominal (43V min). Retrofitting requires a lithium-compatible controller. Transitional phrase: Still, benefits are clear—a lithium conversion adds 20% more range and halves recharge time. Isn’t that worth the investment?
| Model | Voltage | Ah |
|---|---|---|
| Redway Li-12V | 12V | 100 |
| Redway Li-48V | 48V | 80 |
The Article Does Not Contain an H1 Title – All Headings Provided Are H2 and H3 Level
Redway Battery Expert Insight
FAQs
No—car batteries aren’t deep-cycle. They’ll fail within months due to partial state-of-charge stress. Use only golf-rated deep-cycle units.
Do lithium batteries work in cold weather?
Yes, Redway’s LiFePO4 operates at -20°C, but capacity drops 20% below 0°C. Store carts indoors in winter.
How long does a lithium battery last per charge?
A 48V 100Ah lithium pack delivers 55–65 miles, versus 25–35 miles for lead-acid, assuming moderate terrain.
