General Rules
Battery Service:
- Do not charge the battery if the hydrometer is clear or yellow - tap the hydrometer lightly to dislodge any gas bubbles. If the indicator is still clear or yellow, replace the battery.
- Charger settings from 3 to 80 amps are acceptable as long as electrolyte does not spew out of the vents or the battery does not feel excessively hot (over 52°C [125°F]).
- The battery is sufficiently charged when the green dot in the hydrometer remains visible.
NOTE: Care should be taken not to allow excessive charge rates. Do not allow charge settings to exceed 80 amps or the temperature of the battery to exceeds 52°C (125°F). Failure to follow these guidelines will result in damage to the battery.
Battery Load Test (ARBST):
- Do not tilt battery at more than a 40 degree angle.
- Make sure the battery hold-downs are tight. Loose hold-downs will shake the plate material off the grids and shorten battery life.
- Repeatedly discharging the battery (deep-cycling) will shorten battery life.
- Battery shield must be installed to protect the battery from heat.