Battery Common Causes of Malfunction (Built in Hydrometer)

Battery Common Causes of Malfunction (Built in Hydrometer)

Description:

A built-in temperature compensated hydrometer is molded into the top of the maintenance-free battery. The hydrometer is an indicator of the batter's state of charge. Use this hydrometer with the following diagnostic procedure.

When observing the hydrometer, ensure that the battery has a clean top. A light may be required in some poorly-lit areas.

Under normal operation one of the following three indications can be observed:

1. Green dot visibility (1)
Any green appearance in the hydrometer is interpreted as a green dot (1). The presence of a green dot indicates that the battery's state of charge is 65 percent or more. The battery is ready for testing.
2. Dark dot or lack of green dot visibility (2)
Lack of green dot visibility (dark dot) indicates that the battery's state of charge is below 65 percent. The charging system output should be tested and the electrical system should be tested for excessive draws.
3. Yellow dot or clear dot visibility (3)
A yellow or clear dot (3) indicates that the electrolyte level is low. This electrolyte level is also too low for diagnosis. The following conditions may have caused the reduced electrolyte levels:

* Excessive or prolonged charging
* A broken case
* Excessive tipping of the battery.
Batteries having the above conditions may indicated excessive charging voltages, caused by a faulty charging system. Inspect the charging and the electrical systems. Replace the battery.