A Trojan battery showing degradation typically exhibits voltage drops below 10.5V under load (for 12V units), slow or incomplete charging, visible sulfation (white crystals on terminals), or swollen casing. A capacity test revealing less than 50% of rated Ah confirms failure. For example, a T-1275 150Ah battery powering a golf cart for only 45 minutes instead of 90+ minutes indicates severe capacity loss. Pro Tip: Use a hydrometer to check electrolyte-specific gravity below 1.225 after full charging—values under 1.215 signal cell failure.
What voltage indicates a failing Trojan battery?
A healthy 12V Trojan battery should maintain 12.6–12.8V resting voltage. Readings below 11.8V after 24-hour rest signal permanent capacity loss. Under 30A load, immediate voltage drops to ≤10.5V confirm cell damage.
Trojan batteries utilize lead-calcium alloy grids optimized for deep cycles. When sulfation accumulates, internal resistance increases—voltage plummets under load despite normal open-circuit readings. For instance, a Trojan T-105 showing 12.4V at rest but crashing to 9.6V when powering a 500W motor indicates stratification (acid layer separation). Transitional Tip: Always measure voltage both pre- and post-charging—persistent low voltage after 8-hour charge cycles confirms deterioration.
| Condition | Resting Voltage | Load Voltage (30A) |
|---|---|---|
| Healthy | 12.6–12.8V | ≥11.5V |
| Marginal | 12.1–12.5V | 10.6–11.4V |
| Failed | ≤12.0V | ≤10.5V |
How does sulfation affect performance?
Sulfation—lead sulfate crystallization—reduces active material, causing voltage sag and capacity fade. Trojan’s renewable energy batteries lose 2–5% capacity monthly if kept below 80% charge.
When plates sulfate, effective surface area decreases, forcing higher internal resistance. A Trojan RE-16 battery suffering sulfation might show normal voltage but deliver only 70Ah instead of its 110Ah rating. Real-world analogy: Sulfation acts like artery plaque—restricted flow (current) despite intact pressure (voltage). Pro Tip: Equalize charging monthly at 15.5–16.3V (for 12V models) dissolves minor sulfation—bubbling electrolyte during this process is normal.
| Sulfation Stage | Capacity Retention | Reversible? |
|---|---|---|
| Initial (0–3 months) | 85–95% | Yes |
| Advanced (3–12 months) | 50–84% | Partial |
| Chronic (>12 months) | <50% | No |
Why Trojan Golf Cart Batteries Are the Top Choice
Redway Battery Expert Insight
FAQs
No—bulging casings indicate internal gassing from overcharging or shorted cells. Immediately discontinue use and recycle—swollen batteries risk explosive hydrogen gas release.
How often should I water Trojan batteries?
Check every 30 charge cycles—maintain electrolyte 1/8″ above plates. Use distilled water only—tap water minerals cause premature sulfation.
