Battery Testing

1. VISUAL INSPECTION-Check battery for obvious damage, such as a cracked or broken case or cover, that could permit loss of electrolyte.
^ If obvious damage is noted; replace the battery, determine the cause of damage and correct as necessary.
^ If no damage is noted, proceed to Step 2.

Sealed Battery:

2. HYDROMETER CHECK-Check the state of the Built-In hydrometer.
^ If a green dot is visible, proceed to Step 3.

Built-In Hydrometer Indications:

^ If the hydrometer is dark (no green dot visible), charge the battery and proceed to Step 3. Refer to "Battery Charging". Service and Repair

Built-In Hydrometer Indications:

^ If the hydrometer is clear or has a light yellow color, the battery must be replaced. Refer to "Built-In Hydrometer" for additional details.
3. LOAD TEST Battery Load Test Voltage

CAUTION: Wear a safety face shield when load testing a battery to prevent possible personal injury.

Important: Do not load test a frozen battery.

Tool Required:
J 39200 Digital Multimeter

Battery Load Test:

A. Connect a J 39200 and a battery load tester across the battery terminals.
B. Apply a 300 ampere load for 15 seconds to remove the surface charge from the battery.
C. Remove the load and wait 15 seconds to let the battery recover.
D. Apply 250 amperes to the battery.
Measure
^ Battery voltage after 15 seconds.
E. Remove the load.
F. If the voltage does not drop below the minimum voltage the battery is good and should be returned to service. (The battery temperature must be estimated by feel and by the temperature the battery had been exposed to for the preceding few hours.)
Refer to Battery Load Test Voltage.