Video summary

🏋️‍♂️I Ditched 370 lbs of Batteries!🏋️‍♂️ COMPLETE Golf Cart Lithium Conversion (Huge Power Upgrade)

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Technology

Summary of Video: “🏋️‍♂️I Ditched 370 lbs of Batteries!🏋️‍♂️ COMPLETE Golf Cart Lithium Conversion (Huge Power Upgrade)”

This video is a detailed tutorial and review documenting the complete conversion of a 2020 Club Car Tempo golf cart from traditional lead acid batteries to a single large lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, provided by Power Queen. The presenter walks through the entire process, highlighting key technological concepts, product features, and installation steps.

Key Technological Concepts & Product Features

  • Battery Type & Specs

    • Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery: 51.2V, 100Ah, branded as the “Golf Cart Smart Edition” by Power Queen.
    • Bluetooth-enabled for smartphone monitoring via Power Queen’s app.
    • Includes a dedicated battery monitor with a dash-mounted display for real-time power and charge status.
    • Battery weighs 82.2 lbs, significantly lighter than the six lead acid batteries (totaling ~370.8 lbs), resulting in a weight savings of approximately 288.6 lbs, improving golf cart performance.

  • Charging System

    • Original lead acid charger and proprietary Club Car Tempo charging port are removed.
    • Power Queen provides an 18A, 58.4V charger designed specifically for their lithium batteries.
    • An onboard charger with a built-in cooling fan replaces the external charger.
    • A new OEM-style charging port adapter (costing about $80) is installed for a clean, factory-like appearance and compatibility with the new charger.

  • Electrical Wiring & Installation

    • Detailed removal of old batteries and wiring, including safety tips (run/tow switch, gloves).
    • Removal of the old charging loom and port using T40 and T30 Torx bits and Phillips screws.
    • Installation of new charging port and wiring harness.
    • Use of bus bars and a shunt to integrate the battery monitor into the system for accurate current and voltage readings.
    • Retention of existing 12V systems (headlights, tail lights) with additional 12V converters installed for aftermarket accessories like fog lights and potential future devices.

  • Dashboard Modifications

    • Removal and modification of the dash to accommodate the new battery monitor display.
    • Relocation of the light switch to make room for the monitor.
    • Use of an oscillating tool for precise cutting and installation.

  • Battery Mounting

    • Custom battery tray cushioning using polystyrene packaging material.
    • Securing the battery with straps (user’s own solution, not a kit).

  • Performance & Benefits

    • Lithium batteries provide consistent full power until near depletion, unlike lead acid which lose power gradually.
    • Improved cold weather performance due to low temperature protection, unlike lead acid batteries that suffer in cold.
    • Noticeable power increase and lighter weight make the golf cart more responsive and easier to handle.

  • Additional Notes

    • Power Queen does not sell a complete conversion kit; components are purchased separately.
    • Wiring, mounting, and other hardware (bus bars, shunts) may need to be sourced independently.
    • The video emphasizes labeling and organizing screws and parts for ease of reassembly.
    • The presenter encourages viewers to adapt the instructions to their specific golf cart model and setup.

Guides and Tutorials Provided

  1. Lead Acid Battery Removal Step-by-step safe removal, including handling wiring and heavy batteries.

  2. Charging System Removal How to remove the OEM charging loom and port using Torx bits and screwdrivers.

  3. Installation of New Charging Port Installing a new OEM-style charging port adapter for lithium charging compatibility.

  4. Dashboard Modification Removing and modifying the dash to install a battery monitor and relocate switches.

  5. Wiring Setup Integrating the battery monitor with shunt and bus bars, connecting charger and power cables.

  6. Battery Mounting Tips Using packaging material as cushioning and strapping down the new battery securely.

  7. Using Power Queen App Monitoring battery status via Bluetooth app alongside the physical battery monitor.

Main Speaker / Source

  • Sam from “Sam’s Doing Stuff” The presenter and installer who provides detailed narration, instructions, and personal insights throughout the video.

  • Power Queen The battery manufacturer and supplier of the lithium iron phosphate battery, charger, and battery monitor used in the conversion. The video is made possible through a partnership with Power Queen.

Overall, this video serves as an in-depth tutorial and review for golf cart owners interested in upgrading from heavy lead acid batteries to a modern lithium iron phosphate solution, showcasing significant improvements in weight, power, and usability.

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