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ELECTRICAL
16
LOAD TEST
1. Perform the following steps to complete the load
test procedure for maintenance free batteries.
2. Connect the load tester clamps to the terminals
and proceed with the test as follow:
a. If the battery has been on charge, remove the
surface charge by connect a 300ampere load
for 15 seconds.
b. Connect the voltmeter and apply the specified
load.
c. Read the voltage after the load has been ap-
plied for 15 seconds.
d. Disconnect the load.
e. Compare the voltage reading with the mini-
mum and replace the battery if battery test
voltage is below that shown in the voltage ta-
ble.
Voltage
Temperature
9.6
20 °C (68.0 °F) and above
9.5
16 °C (60.8 °F)
9.4
10 °C (50.0 °F)
9.3
4 °C (39.2 °F)
9.1
-1 °C (30.2 °F)
8.9
-7 °C (19.4 °F)
8.7
-12 °C (10.4 °F)
8.5
-18 °C (-0.4 °F)
NOTE
• If the voltage is greater shown in the table, the
battery is good.
• If the voltage is less than shown in the table,
replace the battery.
TEST (2)
1. Make sure the ignition switch and all accesso-
ries are in the OFF position.
2. Disconnect the battery cables (negative first).
3. Remove the battery from the vehicle
CAUTION
Care should be taken in the event the battery case
is cracked or leaking, to protect your skin from the
electrolyte.
Heavy rubber gloves (not the household type)
should be wore when removing the battery
4. Inspect the battery tray for damage caused by
the loss of electrolyte. If acid damage is pre-
sent, it will be necessary to clean the area with
a solution of clean warm water and baking so-
da. Scrub the area with a stiff brush and wipe
off with a cloth moistened with baking soda and
water.
5. Clean the top of the battery with the same solu-
tion as described above.
6. Inspect the battery case and cover for cracks. If
cracks are present, the battery must be re-
placed.
7. Clean the battery posts with a suitable battery
post tool.
8. Clean the inside surface of the terminal clamps
with a suitable battery cleaning tool. Replace
damaged or frayed cables and broken terminal
clamps.
9. Install the battery in the vehicle.
10.Connect the cable terminals to the battery post,
making sure tops of the terminals are flush with
the tops of the posts.
11.Tighten the terminal nuts securely.
12.Coat all connections with light mineral grease
after tightening.
CAUTION
When batteries are being charged, an explosive
gas forms beneath the cover of each cell. Do not
smoke near batteries being charged or which have
recently been charged. Do not break live circuit at
the terminals of batteries being charged.
A spark will occur when the circuit is broken. Keep
open flames away from battery.