Service manual

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Currie Technologies // Service Manual (Version 2008a)
BATTERY FAQ'S
Q: Do I need to charge the batteries before using them?
A: Yes, you should charge the batteries fully before fi rst using them.
Q: What is conditioning (NiMH only)?
A: The conditioning process is performed by fi rst draining the batteries and then charging them fully. Conditioning is recommended
for every ten to twenty charges.
Q: Do I need to "break-in" my batteries?
A: Yes, the batteries used in the Currie Hybrid Electric Bicycles will need to have a “break-in” cycle consisting of ~ three discharge/
charge cycles before they will reach optimum performance. This involves three complete discharges and three complete
recharges. After this initial “break-in” cycle the batteries will have maximum possible performance and less line voltage
fl uctuations under load.
Q: How long will the batteries hold their charge?
A: All batteries will self-discharge when not in use. The self-discharging rate depends on the temperature at which they are stored.
Excessively cold or hot storage temperatures will drain the batteries faster than normal. Ideally the batteries should be stored at
room temperature.
Q: Why should I recharge my batteries at least every 90 days (NiMH & Li-Ion) and every 30 days (SLA) when I am not using
them?
A: Batteries naturally loose their charge over time. To keep the batteries in optimal condition and extend their life, it is recommended
that a top-off recharge be performed at least every 90 days for NiMH & Li-Ion batteries and at least every 30 days for SLA
batteries. Not maintaining the batteries will cause them to lose performance and have a shorten lifespan.
Q: What happens if I leave the power switch on longer than 5 minutes?
A: Currie bikes are equipped with a 5 minute shut-off mode. If no activity is detected after 5 minutes the bike will turn itself off to
protect the batteries. To restart, cycle the power switch (OFF then ON). If you have left the power switch on or your product has
not been charged for a long period of time, the batteries may reach a stage at which it will no longer hold a charge.
Q: Will I get more performance from my bike if I leave the batteries to charge longer?
A: No, once the batteries are fully charged (as indicated by the light on the charger) it is best to unplug them from the charger.
Leaving the batteries charging longer than necessary is called “overcharging” and will not increase performance. Currie-supplied
chargers are designed to avoid over-charging a battery. Still we recommend that you always unplug a charger after the unit is
fully charged to avoid the possibility of unanticipated circumstances such as an unexpected power surge from a lightning strike
(or other power line anomaly) potentially causing damage. Only use Currie-supplied chargers.
Q: Is it normal that the batteries get warm when recharging?
A: Yes, it is normal that the batteries will become warm to the touch during the recharging process. This is because the increase of
internal resistance and less energy conversion effi ciency from electric energy to chemical energy.
Q: How long will my batteries last before needing replacement?
A: Average battery life depends on use and conditions. Even with proper care, rechargeable batteries does not last forever.
Q: How will I know when to replace my batteries?
A: Some or all of the following may occur possibly indicating that the batteries have reached their useful lifespan and will need to be
replaced.
Shorter ride time than normal
Less power while riding than when your hybrid electric bicycle was new
Reduced time to full charge as indicated by indicator light on charger. For example a fully depleted SLA battery should take
8-10 hours to fully charge, if the charger shows a full charge after only 2 hours than the batteries may need to be replaced.)
Inability to get a full charge from the charger. Charger never stops blinking or stays red even after charging for the full time
Q: What is battery sulfation and how do I prevent it?
A: During normal operation of lead-acid batteries, lead sulfate forms on the battery plates. This process is called sulfation. During
this process the sulfates expand and crystallize, choking the plates and thus reducing battery effi ciency to the point where the
battery will not accept a charge. Sulfation build-up on battery plates is a common cause of battery failure. The easiest way to
prolong the onset of sulfation is to keep the batteries fully charged.
Q: What should I do with my old batteries?
A: Contact your local battery recycling center in order to properly dispose of the batteries. Never dispose of batteries in the garbage.
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