The Fairplay Utility 4 Passenger 48V golf cart typically uses 48V lead-acid or lithium-ion battery packs with 150–200Ah capacity. Six 8V or four 12V lead-acid batteries (like Trojan T-875) wired in series are common. Lithium alternatives like 48V 100Ah LiFePO4 packs reduce weight by 40% while offering 2,000+ cycles. Ensure matching battery dimensions (L12″ x W7″ x H11″) and terminal types (SAE posts) for seamless installation. Chargers must deliver 15–18A DC at 58.4V (lithium) or 56–64V (lead-acid).
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What voltage and capacity are required?
A 48V system demands batteries delivering nominal 48V output, typically achieved via six 8V or four 12V units. Lead-acid options like Trojan T-105 (225Ah) provide 10.8kWh, while lithium packs (e.g., 48V 150Ah) yield 7.2kWh with faster charging. Pro Tip: Check cart labels for “48V 225Ah” specs—undersized capacities reduce hill-climbing torque by 25–30%.
Battery capacity directly impacts range. For example, a 48V 200Ah lead-acid pack allows ~35 miles per charge, whereas a lithium equivalent extends this to ~50 miles due to 95% depth-of-discharge tolerance. Transitionally, heavier lead-acid batteries may require spring reinforcement—lithium’s 138 lb weight savings prevent chassis sagging. Warning: Mixing old and new lead-acid cells creates imbalance, risking 20% capacity loss within 10 cycles.
Are lithium batteries compatible?
Modern Fairplay carts support lithium upgrades if the BMS tolerates 58.4V charging. LiFePO4 packs operate optimally between -4°F to 140°F, unlike lead-acid’s 32–113°F limit. Pro Tip: Retrofit kits with voltage stabilizers prevent controller errors when switching from lead-acid’s 52V (50% discharge) to lithium’s steady 48–54V range.
| Feature | Lead-Acid | Lithium |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Life | 500 | 3,000+ |
| Weight (48V 150Ah) | 360 lbs | 145 lbs |
But what about existing chargers? Lead-acid chargers with automatic shutoff at 57.6V can undercharge lithium batteries, leaving 15% capacity unused. Conversely, lithium-specific chargers use CC-CV protocols terminating at 58.4V. Practically speaking, upgrade both battery and charger for optimal performance—running lithium on lead-acid charging profiles degrades cells 3× faster.
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What physical dimensions fit?
Standard Fairplay battery trays accommodate L12″ x W7″ x H11″ units with top-mounted SAE terminals. Group GC8 (8V) batteries require 0.5″ spacers between cells for airflow. Pro Tip: Measure your existing tray—oversized lithium packs may need aluminum mounting brackets ($35–$60) to prevent vibration damage.
For non-standard configurations, third-party trays like the Allied 48V Golf Cart Kit allow custom layouts. Transitionally, consider terminal orientation—reverse-polarity setups demand cable rerouting. Did you know? 12V marine deep-cycle batteries (e.g., VMAX SLR125) can substitute in emergencies but sacrifice 30% lifespan due to thinner lead plates.
Redway Battery Expert Insight
FAQs
No—automotive SLI batteries lack deep-cycle design, failing after 15–20 deep discharges. Opt for golf cart-specific AGM or flooded lead-acid units.
How long do Fairplay batteries last?
Lead-acid: 3–5 years (500 cycles). Lithium: 8–10 years (3,000+ cycles) with proper 20–80% partial charging habits.
