STARTING/CHARGING SYSTEMS(H4SO) > Battery
WARNING:
Do not bring an open flame close to the battery during the operation.
CAUTION:
• Prior to charging, corroded terminals should be cleaned with a brush and common caustic soda solution.
• Be careful since battery electrolytic solution overflows while charging the battery.
• Observe instructions when handling the battery charger.
• Before charging the battery on the vehicle, disconnect the battery ground terminal to prevent damage of generator diodes or other electrical units.
1. JUDGMENT OF BATTERY IN CHARGED CONDITION
1. Specific gravity of electrolyte should be held within the specific range from 1.250 to 1.290 for more than one hour.
2. Voltage per battery cell should be held at a specific value in a range from 2.5 to 2.8 V for more than one hour.
2. CHECK CONDITION OF CHARGE WITH HYDROMETER.
|
Hydrometer indicator |
State of charge |
Corrective action |
|
Green dot |
65% or more |
Load test |
|
Dark dot |
65% or less |
Charge battery |
|
Clear dot |
Low electrolyte |
Replace the battery.* (If cranking is difficult) |
|
* Check electrical system before replacement. | ||
Charge the battery at the current value specified by manufacturer or at approximately 1/10 of battery’s ampere-hour rating.
Quick charging is a method that the battery is charged in a short period of time with a relatively large current by using a quick charger.
Since a large current flow raises electrolyte temperature, the battery is subject to damage if the large current is used for prolonged time. For this reason, the quick charging must be carried out within a current range that will not increase the electrolyte temperature above 40°C (104°F).
Also the quick charging is a temporary mean to bring battery voltage up to some level, and battery should be charged slowly with low current as a rule.
CAUTION:
• Observe the items in 3. NORMAL CHARGING.
• Never use more than 10 A when charging the battery because it will shorten the battery life.