Minuteman E24 - Page 55

12.3 Hydrometer Testing Batteries Cont.
• To do an accurate test
,
the batter
y
water level must be hi
g
h enou
g
hto
,
y
g
g
extract enough electrolyte to fill hydrometer enough so that the
indicator floats. If the water levels are low, water should be added
prior to charging in order to let the electrolyte to mix.
• The greater the variation between cells readings, the greater the loss
of run time. For example, if the readings are 1.265, 1.265 and 1.225 in
one 6 volt battery The low cell would be considered weak and greatly
one
6
volt
battery
.
The
low
cell
would
be
considered
weak
and
greatly
reduce the performance of the battery or shorter run time. This
battery would have a point 40 variation. Batteries that have weakened
cells in most cases it can still be used as long they continue provide
adequate run time. A battery with a point 40 variation or more should
be determined defective.
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