Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Load Testing

Requirements:
- Battery at least 75 % charged.
- Battery Ground (GND) strap disconnected.
- Battery load tester connected per manufacturer's instructions (Christie Automotive BT-900 or equivalent).

NOTE: The load current and the minimum voltage varies, depending upon the capacity of the battery, and should be taken from the sticker on the heavy discharge tester, or taken from the following chart:

Load Current And Minimum Voltage:





1) Alternate method: 1/2 of cold cranking amps for 15 seconds

NOTE:
- If the minimum voltage is too low after a load period of 5-10 seconds, the battery is discharged or faulty; check specific gravity.
- If the battery is colder than room temperature, voltage under load will be lower than the specified value

If battery must be tested cold, Use information below as a guide:

Approximate Electrolyte Minimum Acceptable
Temp ° F (° C): Voltage Under Load (Volts)
:

60 ( 16) 9.5 Volts
50 ( 10) 9.4 Volts
40 ( 4) 9.3 Volts
30 ( -1) 9.1 Volts
20 ( -7) 8.9 Volts
10 (-12) 8.7 Volts
0 (-18) 8.5 Volts