How to Charge a Scooter Battery
by Chris Gilliland
Small, inexpensive and economical, scooters are well-suited to the short travel distances often found in an urban environment. Starting a scooter is done either by kick-starting it or with a push of the electric starter's button, the drain placed on the battery replenished during the ride. However, sometimes the duration of the trip is not long enough to sufficiently recharge the battery. Over time, this can completely discharge the battery. Luckily, keeping the battery charged is a simple matter.
Onboard Charging
Step 1
Turn the ignition switch to the "OFF" position and access the battery. On most scooters, the battery is stored directly under the seat or under a panel that can be pulled off of the floorboard. If the battery is not in either location, refer to your owner's manual.
Step 2
Plug in or turn the battery charger on and connect the battery charger's red lead wire to the positive (+) terminal and the black lead wire to the negative (-) terminal. The charger should indicate that it is in the "CHARGE" phase.
Step 3
Allow the battery to charge. Charge times can vary depending on the condition of the battery and the type of charger, but expect the process to take two to three hours.
Step 4
Disconnect the battery when the battery charger indicates a "FULL CHARGE." Remove the black lead wire from the negative (-) terminal first, then remove the red lead wire from the positive (+) terminal.
Step 5
Close the seat or replace the battery panel.
Charging with Battery Removed
Step 1
Turn the ignition switch to the "OFF" position and access the battery. On most scooters, the battery is stored directly under the seat or under a panel that can be pulled off of the floorboard. If the battery is not in either location, refer to your owner's manual.
Step 2
Disconnect the battery by unscrewing the phillips head bolt from the negative (-) terminal first, then remove the phillips head bolt from the positive (+) terminal. Pull the battery free from its tray and close the seat or battery panel.
Step 3
Plug in or turn the battery charger on and connect the battery charger's red lead wire to the positive (+) terminal and the black lead wire to the negative (-) terminal. The charger should indicate that it is in the "CHARGE" phase.
Step 4
Allow the battery to charge. Disconnect the battery when the battery charger indicates a "FULL CHARGE." Remove the black lead wire from the negative (-) terminal first, then remove the red lead wire from the positive (+) terminal.
Step 5
Access the battery tray and slide the battery into place. Connect the battery leads to the positive (+) terminal first, followed by the negative (-) terminal. Tighten the phillips head bolts.
Step 6
Close the seat or replace the battery panel.
References
- The Professional Motorcycle Repair Program; Professional Career Development Institute; 1995
Tips
- If the battery terminal postbattery chargings are corroded, clean the posts with a mild solution of three tablespoons of baking soda in a pint of water, then wipe dry with a clean rag or towel.
- Use an automatic battery charger, such as a Battery Tender, to simplify the charging process.
- If you are uncomfortable performing this task, or lack the tools necessary for the job, you should have the work done by a qualified technician.
Things You'll Need
- Battery charger
- Screwdriver, phillips
Warnings
- When disconnecting the battery, do not let the terminals contact the frame to prevent grounding and electrical shock.
Writer Bio
An avid motorcyclist, Chris Gilliland has immersed himself into the two-wheeled world while balancing work life and raising three daughters. When he is not managing the parts department of a local, multi-line motorcycle dealership, Gilliland can often be found riding, writing or working on his motorcycle blog, Wingman's Garage.
