Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Battery Service General Rules




^ 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.

NOTE: Do not allow charge settings to exceed 80 amps or the temperature of the battery to exceed 52°C (125°F). Failure to follow these guidelines will result in damage 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.




^ 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.