Manitowoc Published 05-26-17, Control # 238-02 7-3
MLC165-1 SERVICE/MAINTENANCE MANUAL POWER TRAIN
Table 7-2. Open Circuit Voltage
Consult the manual provided with the test meter for detailed
test information.
Troubleshooting—Slow Cranking
If the starter cranks too slowly and the battery is charged and
in good condition, do a voltage-drop test to make sure that
the starter connections are good.
When cranking, a voltage drop of more than 0.2 volts
between the starting motor cable and ground can cause hard
starting regardless of a battery’s condition. The voltage drop
can be caused by a poor contact between the cable terminal
and ground or between the clamp terminal and the battery
post. Also, poor start-switch contacts and frayed, broken, or
corroded cables can be the cause.
Quarterly Maintenance
• Thoroughly clean the batteries and the holder with a
baking soda/water solution.
• If provided, make sure the drain holes are open in the
holder. If water collects in holder, drill some drain holes.
• Clean the posts and terminals. The posts can be lightly
coated with petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion.
• Make sure that the hold-downs are in good condition.
Replace faulty parts.
• Replace frayed, broken, or corroded cables.
• Replace the batteries if their containers are cracked or
worn to the point that they leak.
• Ensure a good tight contact between the clamp
terminals and the battery posts.
• Make sure the hold-downs are tight enough to prevent
battery movement but not so tight to cause distortion.
Charging
NOTE If the crane is equipped with the optional charger,
see Battery Charger
on page 7-4.
1. Remove the batteries or disconnect all the crane wiring
from the batteries.
2. Read and follow the charger manufacturer’s
instructions.
Always wear eye protection when servicing batteries.
NOTE The battery should be at room temperature when
recharging. Never attempt to recharge a frozen
battery.
3. Clean the top of the battery to help prevent dirt entering
the cells.
4. Verify the plates are covered with electrolyte. If the level
is low, add distilled water to bring the level just to top of
the plates. Use a clean funnel. Re-check after charging.
• The maximum charge rate in amperes should be no
more than 1/3 of the battery’s reserve capacity minute
rating.
NOTE The Deka 908D battery originally supplied with the
crane has a reserve capacity rating of 430 minutes.
• Do not exceed 16 volts while charging (or 32V when
charging two batteries in series).
• Charge until a 2-hour period results in no increase in
voltage or decrease in current.
NOTE Overcharging will shorten a battery’s life.
If battery becomes hot to the touch or if it gases
violently, temporarily halt charging or reduce charging
current.
State-of-Charge Specific Gravity
Approximate
Open-Circuit
Voltage
(24V System)
100% 1.260 25.2
75% 1.230 24.8
50% 1.200 24.4
25% 1.170 24.0
0% 1.110 23.6
1
1
2
Item Description
1 Test Leads on Battery Terminals
2 Voltmeter
Figure 7-2. Checking Battery Voltage
P1616