Columbia Payloader - Conditions Affecting Charging; Charging Procedure; Charging Batteries Outside Vehicle; Delta-Q Battery Charger Operation

4.4 CONDITIONS WHICH AFFECT CHARGING
Always schedule enough charging time so the Delta-Q Charger attains the 100% level. Charging time is affected by
age and battery condition, state of discharge, electrolyte temperature, AC line voltage, and other variables. Correct
charging methods extend battery life and vehicle range between charges.
New batteries need up to four hours more charging than “mature” b
atteries. Before the first use, completely charge
new batteries. Charging time will vary based on conditions noted above but will probably be 12 hours.
If vehicle is used only occasionally, a refresher charge should be given prior to using.
Battery efficiency is affected by temperature. If the temperature of the outside air and/or batteries is below 60º F,
battery capacity is reduced. Batteries will require more frequent and longer charge periods in early spring, fall and
winter.
As batteries age, they finish charge at progressively higher charge rates and tend to use more distilled water. At this
point in battery age, charger will automatically begin reducing charge time.
Batteries found defective must be replaced. All batteries in a vehicle should be matched according to age, capacity
and brand.
4.5 CHARGING PROCEDURE
Connect the supplied power cord to the vehicle charger receptacle and to a properly grounded wall outlet. Charger
start and charge time is automatic. See Section 4.7 DELTA-Q BATTERY CHARGING.
4.6 CHARGING BATTERIES OUTSIDE VEHICLE
When a vehicle contains optional roll-out battery racks, the batteries are charged by a portable charger that is
plugged into the batteries after they have been rolled out onto an appropriate battery stand. See Section 4.13 ROLL
OUT BATTERIES.
4.7 DELTA-Q BATTERY
4.7.1 DELTA-Q BATTERY CHARGING
All current production Columbia 24/36/48 volt electric vehicles are built with a new solid state on-board, fully
automatic Delta-Q Battery Charger (Figure 4.7.1A) as standard equipment. This section explains in more detail the
Delta-Q Charger Operations. The Delta Q charge status can be found in two locations. On the Delta Q face and on a
remote multicolored LED (Figure 4-7.1B). This LED and descriptive label will located near the Charger Receptacle.
Figure 4.7.1A Figure 4.7.1B
NOTICE: Do not cover the charger cabinet or cooling fins with clothing, blankets, or other material. Fins
provide ventilation and prevent overheating.
Do not disassemble the charger. There are no serviceable components.
4-3
BC 2012