Load Testing

Load Test


WARNING!
- Refer to Warnings and Safety Measure.
- Dispose of electrolyte (sulfuric acid/water mixture) properly! Waste electrolyte must only be disposed of in appropriate waste disposal sites. Refer to local regulations pertaining to electrolyte disposal
- DO NOT load test batteries which are gassing. Otherwise there is a risk of explosion.
- The following notes and procedures must be followed to ensure correct measurements.


NOTE:
- In order to better determine a battery's overall condition, it is recommended to always perform the load test in conjunction with the electrolyte specific gravity test. Specific Gravity
- It is not necessary to remove battery from vehicle or disconnect battery terminals.


Special tools, testers and auxiliary items needed







- Battery tester VAS 1979, VAS 5033, Christie Automotive BT-9000 or equivalent

- Switch ignition off
- Connect tester leads to battery posts. Tester leads must be securely fastened and make proper contact with the battery posts.
- Load current and minimum voltage specifications vary depending on battery capacity. Apply load as per tester instructions, or for 5 seconds at load specified below:







If the minimum voltage specification is not reached, replace battery.

Load test results
A battery is in good condition if the voltage measured during the load test drops gradually and does not fall below the specified value. The rate of decrease varies and depends on the battery capacity and cold cranking amp rating ("cold cranking amps" is the rated ability of the battery to perform at low temperatures and with high loads i.e.: high compression engines).

A battery is either faulty or in a low state of charge if the voltage measured during the load test drops quickly and falls below the specified voltage.

After performing the load test, a faulty battery will remain below the specified voltage and may only recover very slowly over a long period of time. The no load voltage is never reached. Testing and Inspection

Such batteries no longer have sufficient reserve and load capacity and must be replaced.