SECTION 4 – ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIRS
4.3.5. Battery Testing
There are two types of battery tests: Unloaded and
Loaded. The unloaded test is the procedure that
will be discussed. It’s the simplest and most
commonly used. An unloaded test is made on a
battery without discharging current. To perform
unloaded testing, check charge condition using
either a hydrometer or voltmeter.
1. Using a voltmeter, voltage readings appear
instantly to show the state of charge. Remember
to hook the positive lead to the battery’s positive
terminal, and the negative lead to the negative
terminal. Measure the battery voltage and
compare to the voltages listed in the “BATTERY
CONDITION CHART” in this manual to
determine condition of battery.
2. A hydrometer measures the specific gravity of
the electrolytes in each cell. The specific gravity
tells the degree of charge; generally, a specific
gravity of about 1.265 to 1.280 indicates full
charge. A reading of 1.230 to 1.260 indicates the
battery should be charged. The “Battery
Condition Chart” included in this manual shows
the charge level as measured by syringe float
hydrometer, digital voltmeter and five ball
hydrometer.
State of Charge Syringe Hydrometer Digital Voltmeter Five Ball Hydrometer
100% Charged w/ Sulfate Stop 1.280 12.80v Five Balls Floating
100% Charged 1.265 12.60v Four Balls Floating
75% Charged 1.210 12.40v Three Balls Floating
50% Charged 1.160 12.10v Two Balls Floating
25% Charged 1.120 11.90v One Ball Floating
0% Charged Less than 1.100 Less than 11.80v Zero Balls Floating
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