Reviving golf cart batteries with Epsom salt can be a cost-effective way to improve the performance of old or sluggish batteries. By using a simple mixture of Epsom salt and distilled water, you can clean the lead plates inside the battery cells, potentially extending their lifespan and improving their efficiency. In this guide, we’ll show you how to revive your golf cart batteries using Epsom salt and answer whether this method is truly effective.
Epsom salt, scientifically known as magnesium sulfate, is commonly used for a variety of purposes, including gardening, relaxation, and even for cleaning battery plates. When used on golf cart batteries, Epsom salt works by dissolving the sulfation (buildup of lead sulfate) on the battery’s lead plates. This buildup can reduce the battery’s capacity, causing it to underperform or lose charge quickly. By applying Epsom salt, you can help remove these deposits and potentially improve the battery’s functionality.
Yes, Epsom salt can help revive golf cart batteries that have suffered from sulfation. This method works by using the magnesium in the Epsom salt to dissolve the sulfate crystals that form on the lead plates of the battery. Over time, these crystals can restrict the flow of current within the battery, leading to decreased performance and shorter battery life. Using Epsom salt can help break down these crystals and restore some of the battery’s lost capacity. However, this technique is most effective for batteries that are not completely dead and still hold some charge. It may not work on severely damaged batteries, but it can improve the performance of slightly worn-out batteries.
Follow these steps to revive your golf cart batteries using Epsom salt:
Before you begin, make sure you have the following materials:
Start by mixing the Epsom salt solution. In a clean container, combine 4 ounces of Epsom salts with 1 quart of warm distilled water. Stir the mixture until the salt is completely dissolved. This solution will be used to fill the battery cells.
Before working with your golf cart’s batteries, ensure you are taking the proper safety precautions. Wear rubber gloves and goggles to protect yourself from acid splashes. It’s also a good idea to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes. Always disconnect the battery cables before you begin working on the batteries, starting with the negative terminal.
Using a turkey baster or syringe, carefully fill each battery cell with the Epsom salt solution. You should add just enough solution to cover the lead plates inside each cell, but not overfill them. It’s important that you fill the cells slightly over the plates, as the solution needs to come into contact with the sulfation on the plates. Do this for each battery in your golf cart, ensuring the solution is evenly distributed across the cells.
After filling the cells with the Epsom salt solution, it’s time to charge the batteries. Begin by charging the golf cart’s battery for a full cycle. Allow the battery to charge completely, and then allow it to rest. Repeat this process for a total of four charge cycles. The Epsom salts will gradually work to dissolve the sulfation on the plates as the battery charges, potentially improving its performance over time.
After completing the four charge cycles, test the battery by running the golf cart to see if its performance has improved. If the cart runs more efficiently and holds a charge longer, the Epsom salt treatment has likely been successful. However, if the performance has not improved significantly, the battery may be too damaged to benefit from this method.
If the first round of Epsom salt treatment didn’t yield the desired results, you can repeat the process. Sometimes, it may take a few attempts to fully break down the sulfation and restore battery performance. Be patient, and ensure you follow each step carefully to give your battery the best chance at recovery.
While Epsom salt can be a helpful solution for reviving slightly worn-out golf cart batteries, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:
Reviving your golf cart batteries with Epsom salt is a simple and affordable method that can improve the performance of slightly worn batteries. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can help restore your batteries and extend their life. However, if your batteries are severely damaged or the sulfation is beyond repair, replacing the batteries may be necessary.
