How to Change Scissor Lift Batteries: An Easy Step-by-Step Guide

To change scissor lift batteries, shut the lift off, disconnect the negative terminal first, lift the old batteries out, clean the battery tray and terminals, then connect the new batteries positive terminal first. Scissor lift batteries are deep cycle batteries that give hours of operating capacity, but over time they wear out and need replacing to keep the lift running efficiently.

The Lift Bros, a family-run aerial lift company in Chouteau, Oklahoma, sells, repairs and refurbishes scissor lifts. Follow the steps below to change the batteries safely and get back to work with minimal downtime.

What tools do you need to change scissor lift batteries?

To change scissor lift batteries, you need safety gear, a wrench, a lifting strap, cleaning supplies and the right replacement batteries:

• Safety gloves and goggles
• Wrench set or socket wrench
• Battery lifting strap or harness (for heavier batteries)
• Battery cleaning solution
• Terminal brush or wire brush
• Replacement batteries (check your scissor lift manual for the battery specifications)

How do you change the batteries on a scissor lift?

Changing scissor lift batteries takes eight steps, from shutting the lift down to testing it with the new batteries in.

1. Shut the lift down safely

Turn off the scissor lift and remove the key before you touch the batteries.

• Disconnect the lift from any external power sources.
• Wear protective gear, including gloves and safety glasses, to avoid contact with battery acid.

2. Find the battery compartment

The scissor lift battery compartment is usually under the platform or behind a side-access panel, depending on the model.

• Check the lift's manual if you're unsure where the batteries are.

3. Disconnect the batteries, negative terminal first

Disconnect the negative (-) terminal on the scissor lift battery first to prevent an accidental short circuit.

• Next, disconnect the positive (+) terminal.
• Use a wrench to loosen the nuts securing the cables.

4. Remove the old batteries

Lift the old scissor lift batteries out of the compartment carefully, because they can be heavy, especially in larger lifts.

• Use a lifting strap or a second person to avoid injury.

5. Clean the battery tray and terminals

Clean the battery compartment and cable connectors before the new batteries go in.

• Remove any corrosion or debris from the battery tray with a cleaning solution.
• Use a terminal brush on the cable connectors to ensure a solid electrical connection.

6. Install the new batteries, positive terminal first

Place the new batteries into the compartment and make sure they are positioned correctly.

• Connect the cables to the positive (+) terminal first, then the negative (-) terminal.
• Tighten the connectors securely, but avoid overtightening.

7. Inspect the connections

Check every battery cable connection before you power up the lift.

• Make sure all cables are secure and free from corrosion.
• Make sure there are no loose or exposed wires.

8. Test the lift

Turn the key to the "on" position and check the lift's operation.

• Confirm that the lift moves smoothly and that the battery indicator shows a full charge.

What do you do with old scissor lift batteries?

Old scissor lift batteries should be recycled. Take old lead-acid batteries to a battery recycling center, or ask your battery supplier about disposal options.

How do you extend scissor lift battery life?

You can extend scissor lift battery life by charging regularly, checking water levels and keeping the terminals clean:

• Charge regularly. Avoid deep discharges and keep the batteries charged when the lift is not in use.
• Check water levels. Flooded lead-acid batteries need their electrolyte kept at the correct level to prevent damage.
• Keep terminals clean. Inspect and clean the battery terminals regularly to avoid corrosion.

Is changing scissor lift batteries hard?

No. Changing scissor lift batteries is a straightforward job, but safety and proper handling are critical. Shutting the lift off, disconnecting the negative terminal first, connecting the new batteries positive terminal first and testing the lift keeps a scissor lift running smoothly and extends the life of the equipment.