Battery - Testing & Inspection Procedures
88subaru04NUMBER 07-37-88
DATE 6-20-88
APPLICABILITY
ALL SUBARU VEHICLES
SUBJECT: BATTERY TESTING PROCEDURES
The following procedures can be used to evaluate the serviceability of a discharged battery and thus prevent the unnecessary replacement of a serviceable battery.
THE MINIMUM RECOMMENDED CHARGE RATE FOR A MAINTENANCE FREE BATTERY IS 6 AMPS/5 HOURS.
NOTE: If battery is extremely discharged, it may be necessary to increase the charge time to bring specific gravity to 1.250.
CAUTION
Electrolyte is a corrosive acid, avoid contact with skin, eyes or clothing.
Should electrolyte clone in contact with your skin or eyes, flush with clear water for 15 minutes and seek prompt medical attention.
Batteries produce explosive gases, keep sparks, flame and burning materials away.
Provide adequate ventilation when charging batteries.
TOOLS REQUIRED: 1) Temperature Corrected Hydrometer
2) Carbon Pile
3) Amp meter
4) Volt meter
VISUAL INSPECTION
A) Check for terminal corrosion, loose terminal posts and case damage.
SPECIFIC GRAVITY TEST (EXCEPT P/N S0A4071100)
A) Check each cell for a reading of at least 1.250 or higher before proceeding with further testing. All cells must be within 0.050 points of each other, if not, replace battery.
B) Electrolyte should be clear. If either of the following colors are observed during testing, the battery should be replaced.
1) Red/Brownish Red indicates positive plate deterioration.
2) Grey indicates negative plate deterioration.
HIGH RATE DISCHARGE TEST
A) Using a carbon pile and amp meter, load battery to 1/2 cold cranking amps (as listed in battery specifications) for a period of 15 seconds. At end of time period, terminal voltage must be a minimum of 9.6 volts as measured with a voltmeter, if not, replace battery.
THREE MINUTE CHARGE TEST
A) Charge battery at maximum rate, not to exceed 40 amps, for a period of three (3) minutes. Terminal voltage must not exceed 16.5 volts at the end of the time period with the charger connected and operating. if voltage reading is higher, replace battery.
All of the listed tests must be performed to confirm battery condition prior to replacement under the Subaru Limited Warranty.
OPERATION # DESCRIPTION FAILURE CODE TIME
A800-001 Test or Replace FAA-02, 42 0.5