Battery Charging: Overview

Battery charging times are affected greatly by the extent of discharge of the battery, temperature, charger capacity and battery size. The Saturn battery is a Delco Freedom, 75-60, 525 CCA, with a 90 min. reserve capacity. Charging time for a completely discharged battery will be greatly increased due to increased internal resistance. This is because the battery charger must overcome the battery's internal resistance and can be seen by the low current that is produced when charging an extremely discharged battery. Charging time for a completely discharged battery can be roughly estimated by dividing the Reserve Capacity rating (90), by the actual charger output (not the charger's rated output). Example: Using a charger with an actual charging rate of 10 Amps, the estimated charging time would be 9 hrs.

1. Properly connect battery using SA9807 (if out of vehicle), to charger.

2. Set charging rate to high setting and charge battery. For best results, use a charger with an end of charge voltage of 16 volts.

3. Check hydrometer indicator hourly for green dot. Gently tap on hydrometer to eliminate the possibility of hydrometer ball sticking. Continue charging until green dot is visible.

4. Monitor battery for spewing, severe gassing or case temperature above 52°C (125 °F). If this occurs, discontinue charging until battery cools then resume charging at a reduced rate.

5. When green dot appears and remains, the battery is sufficiently charged.

6. Unplug charger, disconnect charger from battery.