General

Safety Precautions:

TOOLS REQUIRED:
ST-1201 Battery Side Terminal Adapters

NOTE: Always turn the ignition "OFF" when connecting or disconnecting battery cables, battery chargers or jumper cables. Failing to do so may damage the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or other electronic components.

If a battery needs charging, follow these basic rules:
^ Do not charge any battery whose hydrometer is clear or light yellow. This indicates that the electrolyte level in the battery is too low. Replace any battery whose hydrometer is clear or light yellow.
^ Do not try to charge a frozen battery. Replace any battery that is frozen.
^ Do not use "boost", "jump start", "crank" or equivalent setting for prolonged charging of batteries. Undesirable and potentially dangerous spewing of gasses or electrolyte through the vent hole may occur.
^ Batteries with the green dot showing should not need to be charged unless they have just been discharged (such as by cranking the vehicle).
^ For the best results, the electrolyte and plates should be above 8°C (40°F) before the battery is charged. A cold battery may not accept a charge current for several hours after the charger is started.
^ To keep the charge time low, use a battery charger that is capable of a charging voltage of at least 16 volts.
^ Every 30 minutes, check the battery being charged to avoid overcharging.
^ If during charging the battery feels hot 52°C (125°F), or if violent gassing or spewing of electrolyte through the vent holes occurs, discontinue charging or reduce the charging rate.
^ Be sure to stop charging within one hour after the green ball appears in the hydrometer.