Tools Required: Battery Load Tester

You can measure battery voltage using a conventional voltmeter and get an acceptable reading of 12 – 14 Volts but you still may not have enough power to drive the Power wheelchair or Mobility Scooter. You need to test the batteries under a “Load State” – (e.g. sitting in and driving the Mobility Chair).

Batteries that fail when used under a load may change the performance behavior of the Mobility Device. Most controllers need a minimum of 18 volts to function properly.  Batteries that fail under a load may not have enough power to operate the Equipment properly. See Picture 1 for load test connections.

To load test the batteries:

1. Remove the chassis shroud or open the Battery Pack as needed to access the scooter batteries
2. Disconnect the battery cables.
3. Connect load charger terminal connectors to the battery terminals. Make sure the Positive connector of the load tester is connected to the positive terminal of the battery and the negative connector of the load tester is connected to the negative terminal of the battery.
4. Hold the Load On switch on for 10 seconds.
5. Read the meter with the load on.
6. Determine if the battery is good or bad while under a load.
7. If the battery is bad, replace the battery at http://www.scooterdirect.com/batteries~29.htm
   1. It is recommended that both batteries be replaced at the same time.
   2. If the battery is good, then the batteries are not the problem. Continue to troubleshoot unit by checking battery connections and harness connections.

Battery Load Tester