BATTERY
fold by pulling straight up at the ends (Figure 10).
After testing cells, reinstall manifold by placing it in
position and pushing it down firmly until seated.
Figure 10 - Removing Vent Manifold to Gain
Access to Cells (Side Terminal
Maintenance Free Battery)
Top Terminal Batteries:
Use a knife blade to cut through the top plaque
center section on the dotted lines (Figure 11). After
removal of the section of the plaque, individual caps
can be unscrewed to allow access to each cell.
When reinstalling cell caps after testing, make sure
caps are properly seated.
Figure 11 - Removing Section of Top Plaque to
Gain Access to Cell Caps (Top
Terminal Maintenance Free Battery)
c.
If electrolyte level is above the plates in all cells,
proceed to Step 2.
d.
If electrolyte level is below the tops of the plates
in one or more cells, add distilled water until
electrolyte level is just above the tops of the
separators. Charge the battery 15 minutes at
15-25 amperes to mix the water with the elec-
trolyte. After charging, proceed to Step 2.
STEP 2. STATE OF CHARGE TEST
The battery’s state of charge can be determined by either
the specific gravity (hydrometer) test or by the stabilized
open circuit voltage test.
Specific Gravity (Hydrometer) Test
Perform specific gravity (hydrometer) test on all cells
(Figure 12a). (Refer to instructions for reading
hydrometer under ELECTROLYTE AND SPECIFIC
GRAVITY.)
a.
Measure and record specific gravity, corrected to
26.7°C (80°F), of each cell. Compare readings
obtained with Table 4a to determine battery's
state of charge.
b.
If specific gravity readings are 1.225 or higher
and are within 50 points (.050 specific gravity)
between, highest and lowest cells, proceed to
Step 3.
TABLE 4a
Specific Gravity
(Corrected to
State of Charge
26.7°C or 80°F)
1.265
Fully Charged
1.225
75% Charged
1.190
50% Charged
1.155
25% Charged
1.120
Discharged
c.
If specific gravity readings are low (below 1.225)
or vary more than 50 points between highest and
lowest cells, recharge battery as instructed under
CHARGING and inspect vehicle’s electrical
system to determine cause for low state of
charge.
d.
If, after charging, specific gravity readings are
within 50 points between highest and lowest
cells, proceed to Step 3. If readings still vary
more than 50 points after charging, replace the
battery.
CTS-4111B - Page 10
