72320 48V 72Ah LiFePO4 Golf Cart Battery

The 72320 is a 48V, 72Ah lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) pack designed for golf carts and other low-speed electric vehicles. It offers reliable range, fast charging, and minimal maintenance compared to lead-acid banks.

At-a-glance

• Nominal voltage: 51.2V (16S LiFePO4); full charge: 58.4V
• Capacity: 72Ah (≈3.7 kWh; typical usable 3.0–3.5 kWh with BMS reserve)
• Chemistry: LiFePO4 with integrated BMS (cell balancing and protections)
• Expected cycle life: 2000+ cycles at ~80% depth of discharge
• Charging: CC/CV LiFePO4 profile; use a 58.4V lithium charger
• Typical charge time: ~4–5 hours with a 48V/15A charger; 6–8 hours with 10A
• Operating temps (typical): discharge -4 to 131°F; charge 32 to 113°F

Real-world performance

• Estimated range: about 12–22 miles per charge on a standard golf cart (varies with hills, tire pressure, driving style, passengers, and accessories).
• Weight savings: substantially lighter than equivalent lead-acid banks, improving acceleration and reducing turf wear.
• Consistency: Maintains voltage under load better than lead-acid, so carts feel stronger near the end of a shift.

When to choose this battery

• Use if you want a drop-in 48V lithium upgrade with simple maintenance and faster charging.
• Use for daily routes under ~20 miles with occasional hills.
• Avoid if your controller/motor regularly demands peak currents beyond the battery’s BMS rating (check controller specs).
• Avoid if you only have an unconfigurable lead-acid charger (upgrade to a LiFePO4 charger first).

Compatibility checklist

• System voltage: 48V cart (Club Car, E-Z-GO, Yamaha, and similar). Not for 36V systems.
• Controller current: Verify the cart’s controller peak/continuous current is within the battery BMS limits.
• Charger: Must be LiFePO4-compatible, 58.4V CC/CV. Do not use a flooded/AGM-only charger.
• 12V accessories: Use a 48V-to-12V DC-DC converter; do not tap individual cells.
• Fit: Confirm pack dimensions and cable routing clearances against your battery bay before purchase.

Installation guide (overview)

1. Power down and remove the key. Disconnect the old battery bank and accessories.
2. Mount the 72320 securely; prevent movement and vibration. Use appropriate battery straps or a tray.
3. Connect main positive and negative leads with correct polarity. Use properly crimped lugs and appropriately sized cable (commonly 4 AWG or as specified by your controller).
4. Install a main fuse and on/off disconnect if not already present.
5. Connect the DC-DC converter for 12V loads; rewire lights and accessories to the converter output.
6. Charge to 100% with a LiFePO4 charger before first use, then verify no abnormal heat, odor, or alarms.

Charging and care

• Charge after use; avoid frequent deep discharges below 10–20% state of charge.
• Store around 40–60% state of charge in a cool, dry place if idle for 1+ month. Top up every 2–3 months.
• Keep terminals clean and tight; inspect cables for abrasion or looseness.
• Do not charge below 32°F; warm the pack to above freezing first.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Lower weight, faster charging, longer service life, stable voltage, minimal maintenance.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost, requires lithium-compatible charger, must ensure BMS current rating matches your cart.

Alternatives

• Higher capacity lithium (e.g., 100–105Ah) for longer routes or heavy hill use.
• Multiple smaller lithium modules in parallel if you need modular expansion.
• Lead-acid (flooded/AGM) for lowest upfront cost, with shorter range per charge and more maintenance.

Safety notes

• Always disconnect the charger and remove metal jewelry before working on the battery.
• Use eye protection and insulated tools; avoid short circuits and sparks.
• Follow all BMS and charger instructions; never bypass protections.

FAQ

How far will a 72Ah 48V battery take my cart?

Typically about 12–22 miles per charge, depending on terrain, passengers, tire pressure, speed, and accessory use.

Do I need a new charger?

Yes, use a 58.4V LiFePO4 charger (CC/CV profile). Many lead-acid chargers either won’t fully charge lithium or can shorten its life.

Can I run lights and accessories directly from the pack?

No. Use a 48V-to-12V DC-DC converter. Tapping cells can damage the battery and void warranties.

Is this a drop-in replacement for my 6x8V or 8x6V lead-acid setup?

Functionally, yes—electrically it replaces the 48V bank. Physically, confirm dimensions, mounting, and cable reach. You’ll gain space and lose weight.

Can I mix this with existing lead-acid batteries?

No. Do not mix chemistries or capacities. Replace the entire bank with lithium.