Section 06: ELECTRICAL
PA1562
16
FIGURE 12: TEST INDICATOR 06096
Green Dot Visible
Any green appearance is interpreted as a "green
dot", and the battery is ready for testing. On rare
occasions, following prolonged cranking, the
green dot may still be visible when the battery is
obviously discharged. Should this occur, charge
the battery as described under "Charging
Procedure" in "Battery Charging" later in this
section.
Dark - Green Dot Not Visible
If there is difficulty cranking the engine, the
battery should be tested as described in this
section. On rare occasions, the test indicator
may turn light yellow. In this case, the integral
charging system should be checked. Normally,
the battery is capable of further service;
however, if difficult start has been reported,
replace the battery. DO NOT CHARGE, TEST,
OR JUMP-START.
3.5.1 Visual Inspection
1. Check the outside of the battery for a broken
or cracked cover or case that could permit
loss of electrolyte. If obvious physical
damage is noted, replace the battery.
2. Check for loose terminal posts, cable
connections, damaged cables, and for
evidence of corrosion. Correct conditions as
required before proceeding with tests.
3.5.2 Removing Surface Charge
Disconnect cables from the battery and attach
alligator clamps to the contact lead pad on the
battery as shown in figure 16. Connect a 300
ampere load across the terminal for 15 seconds
to remove surface charge from the battery.
3.5.3 Load Test
This test is one means of checking the battery to
determine its ability to function as required in the
vehicle.
To make this test, use test equipment that will
withstand a heavy electrical load from the
battery, such as a carbon pile resistor or other
suitable means.
1. Connect a voltmeter, ammeter, and a
variable load resistance as illustrated in
figure 13.
FIGURE 13: LOAD TEST 06064
CAUTION
Observe polarity of the meters and the battery
when making connections, and select the
correct meter range.
2. Apply a 290 amperes load to the battery for
15 seconds.
3. With an ammeter reading specified load,
read voltage. The voltage should be at least
9.6 volts. Disconnect the load. If the
voltmeter indicates 9.6 volts or more, the
battery is good. If the voltmeter reading is
less than 9.6 volts, replace the battery. This
voltage is to be used for battery ambient
temperatures of 70ºF (21ºC) and above. For