Will NOCO GEN On-Board Battery Charger Work With Ryobi 48V Mower Battery

Updated 12/01/2025 | Published 11/06/2025

Question:

I have a Ryobi RY48ZTR100 electric zero turn mower that I purchased in 2020. It has done well for me, until the past year when it cant seem to make it 100 ft before the blades turn off. Im thinking that its finally time to replace the batteries... which, you know, 5 years seems like a pretty good run for those lead acids. I was initially disappointed that it didnt come with lithium batteries, so I figure now is the time to make it happen. My problem is it seems like a pretty in-depth process to convert to lithium. I have seen some forum posts and Youtube videos that say its possible, but I dont know a whole lot about electricity, so I want to have some clear guidance, so I dont electrocute myself or ruin any equipment. The mower is a listed as 48V, 100 Ah. I know I will likely need 4 replacement lithium batteries and a new charger as the charger that came with it is obviously for the lead acid batteries, and I know enough to know that it wont work with the lithium. Beyond that, can you help me make sure I get the right batteries and charger to make it work? Im thinking this NOC54FR might be ok? Is there anything else I should be considering?

asked by: Michael

Ryobi Mower
(click to enlarge)

Expert Reply:

Hi Michael; I don't have any real information on that conversion but it looks like it takes an actual 48V battery. I would talk to Ryobi about it, and see what they think is best for the battery replacement. It looks like some people wired four 12V batteries in series to make a 48V system but others caution against it and say to get the single battery for various reasons. A 48V battery is not something that we carry.

The NOCO GEN On-Board Battery Charger # NOC54FR is designed for 12V so it won't work on the 48V. If you did get four 12V batteries you would have to completely disconnect them and charge individually each time to use this charger. If you have a single 48V, or connect batteries to make a 48V system, you need a charger that is specific to 48V like the # 329-GX4820 for it to work properly.

expert reply by: Robin H

Robin H.

12/1/2025

Hey Michael, were you able to find a 48V battery setup that works for your Ryobi mower? Knowing what route you took with the lithium conversion could really help others looking to make the same upgrade.