Can you replace 6 8 volt batteries with 4 12-volt in a golf cart?
Replacing six 8V batteries with four 12V units in a golf cart is technically possible if the total system voltage matches (48V). However, compatibility depends on battery chemistry, physical dimensions, and controller tolerance. Lithium-ion 12V batteries may offer space savings and weight reduction but require verifying capacity (Ah) alignment and charger compatibility to avoid performance issues.
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What voltage compatibility issues arise when swapping batteries?
Swapping 6×8V (48V) for 4×12V (48V) maintains total voltage but risks mismatched energy capacity. Lead-acid 12V batteries often have lower Ah ratings than 8V counterparts, reducing range. Lithium-ion variants may compensate with higher energy density but demand BMS and charger adjustments.
While the nominal 48V system voltage remains unchanged, the discharge curve and depth-of-discharge (DoD) limits differ between chemistries. For example, a 8V lead-acid battery typically delivers 170–190Ah, whereas a 12V lithium unit might provide 100Ah but with 80% usable capacity versus 50% for lead-acid. Pro Tip: Calculate total watt-hours (48V × Ah) to compare usable energy. Transitionally, voltage sag under load could strain motors if lithium batteries’ higher current capability isn’t managed by the controller.
How does battery size affect installation?
Standard 8V golf cart batteries measure ~10.3″L × 7.1″W × 11.9″H. Four 12V units must fit within the original 6-battery tray’s ~62″ length. Group 24 (12V) batteries are smaller (~10.25″×6.8″×8.9″), allowing space optimization but requiring secure mounting to prevent vibration damage.
Practically speaking, lithium batteries’ compact size (e.g., 12V 100Ah at 13×6.8×8.5″) enables creative layouts but may leave unused space requiring filler blocks. Consider terminal positions—some 12V batteries have reversed terminals compared to 8V models, necessitating cable rerouting. For example, Trojan 8V batteries use front terminals, while Battle Born 12V lithium units have top posts, demanding different busbar configurations. Transitionally, weight distribution changes: six 8V lead-acid batteries weigh ~630 lbs total, versus ~176 lbs for four 12V lithiums, affecting vehicle balance.
| Parameter | 6×8V Lead-Acid | 4×12V Lithium |
|---|---|---|
| Total Weight | ~630 lbs | ~176 lbs |
| Usable Energy | 3.8–4.5 kWh | 4.8–5.2 kWh |
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FAQs
Likely not—most stock chargers use lead-acid voltage profiles. Lithium requires CC-CV charging with precise 54.8–58.4V cutoffs to prevent BMS tripping.
Does switching to 12V batteries increase speed?
No—speed depends on voltage. Both configurations deliver 48V. However, lithium’s stable voltage under load may maintain speed better during acceleration.