The Fairplay ZX 5.5 48V golf cart requires a 48V lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack with capacities typically ranging from 100Ah to 165Ah. These batteries must match the original battery compartment dimensions (approx. 33x19x26cm) and deliver 150–250A continuous discharge current. Key compatible models include 48V105Ah and 48V165Ah configurations using prismatic LiFePO4 cells with integrated BMS for thermal protection and cell balancing.
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What voltage and capacity are required for the Fairplay ZX 5.5?
Operating at 48V nominal voltage, the system demands batteries with 105–165Ah capacity for 6–8 hours runtime. Standard configurations use 16S LiFePO4 cell arrangements (51.2V fully charged). Pro Tip: Upgrade to 48V165Ah batteries for 40% longer range compared to OEM lead-acid equivalents.
The Fairplay ZX 5.5’s motor controller requires a voltage window of 40–58.4V, making LiFePO4 ideal due to its flat discharge curve maintaining 48–52V during 80% of operation. For example, a 48V165Ah battery delivers 8kWh capacity – sufficient for 80–100 holes on hilly courses. Beyond voltage matching, ensure terminal positions align with original wiring harnesses. Avoid capacities below 100Ah as they force frequent deep discharges, reducing cycle life by 30–50%.
| Battery Type | Capacity | Cycle Life |
|---|---|---|
| Lead-Acid | 150Ah | 400 cycles |
| LiFePO4 | 105Ah | 3,000 cycles |
How does LiFePO4 compare to lead-acid for Fairplay carts?
LiFePO4 batteries offer 1/3 the weight and 3x lifespan of lead-acid. They maintain stable performance in 0–45°C environments versus lead-acid’s 20% capacity loss below 10°C.
Practically speaking, a 48V105Ah LiFePO4 pack weighs 55kg compared to 150kg for equivalent lead-acid, reducing cart strain. The BMS in lithium batteries prevents over-discharge below 40V – critical for protecting Fairplay’s GE motor controllers. Real-world testing shows LiFePO4 achieves 80% depth of discharge daily with negligible degradation, unlike lead-acid which sulfates below 50% SOC. However, upfront costs are 2x higher, offset by 5–7 years of maintenance-free operation.
What physical dimensions are compatible?
Battery trays measure 33cm(L) x 19cm(W) x 26cm(H). Custom solutions like split-pack 24V+24V configurations adapt to tight spaces while maintaining 48V output. Pro Tip: Verify terminal polarity – reversed connections may fry the 400A main fuse.
The OEM compartment accommodates up to 600x600mm total footprint when stacking. Modular designs from Redway Battery allow combining four 12V modules or eight 6V units. For example, their 48V100Ah rack-mount unit uses EVE 3.2V cells in 16S layout with ±2% capacity matching. Ensure new batteries don’t exceed 60cm total height to avoid seat interference.
| Dimension | OEM Spec | Tolerance |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 330mm | ±10mm |
| Width | 190mm | ±5mm |
Are battery management systems (BMS) necessary?
Integrated 100A BMS is mandatory for cell balancing and overvoltage protection. Quality units feature CANBus communication with Fairplay’s Curtis controllers.
A robust BMS monitors individual cell voltages (3.0–3.65V range) and temperatures. Without it, cell imbalance could trigger sudden shutdowns during uphill climbs. Modern BMS systems like Daly’s 48V 150A model automatically sync with the cart’s regenerative braking, recovering 5–8% energy during deceleration. But what happens if BMS fails? Backup mechanical breakers rated for 300A interrupt current prevent catastrophic failures.
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FAQs
No – Fairplay’s motor controller expects 48V (±10%). 52V systems exceed voltage limits, risking MOSFET failure in the controller.
How long do 48V105Ah batteries last per charge?
Typically 50–70km on flat terrain at 25km/h. Hilly courses reduce range by 30% due to 450A peak current draws.
