The check is made by a density meter. When determining the density of the electrolyte, the temperature of the battery must be taken into account. When the electrolyte temperature is below 15°C, for every 10°below this temperature, subtract 0.007 from the measured density. For every 10°over 15°add 0.007.
The density of the electrolyte in the battery
Temperature | ||
Above 25°C | Below 25°C | |
| Full charge | 1,210 – 1,230 | 1,270 – 1,290 |
| Charging to 70% | 1,170 – 1,190 | 1,23 – 1,250 |
| Discharged | 1,050 – 1,070 | 1,110 – 1,130 |
Measure the density of the electrolyte in each jar. A density difference of 0.04 or greater between any two banks indicates electrolyte loss or plate sulfation.
If the electrolyte density between any two banks differs by more than 0.04, the battery must be replaced. If the electrolyte density is lower than required, but the same in all banks, the battery must be charged.
If a maintenance-free battery is used, the condition of the battery can only be checked with a voltmeter.
In batteries with a built-in indicator of the state of charge, the state of the battery is determined by the color of the indicator. The green indicator light indicates that the battery is fully charged. The black color of the indicator indicates the need to charge the battery. The blue color of the indicator indicates a low level of electrolyte in the battery.
Charger
The battery must be charged when the battery is removed from the vehicle.
1. Charge the battery with a charging current of 3.5 to 4 amperes until the density of the electrolyte in the battery increases within 4 hours.
2. The use of high currents to quickly charge the battery is not recommended, because. in this case warping of the plates due to overheating may occur.
3. During battery charging, the temperature of the electrolyte should not exceed 37.8°C.
Removing
1. The battery is located on the front left side of the engine compartment. Remove the battery cover, loosen the negative battery terminal and remove it.
2. Disconnect the positive terminal and remove it.
3. Unscrew the two bolts and remove the battery clamp.
4. Remove the battery from the engine compartment.
5. To remove the battery box, remove the air filter housing.
6. On A/C models, unscrew the screw securing the dehumidifier belt to the front of the battery box (indicated by an arrow).
7. Loosen the inner bolts (indicated by arrows) attaching the battery box to the metal base.
8. Unscrew also one external bolt (indicated by an arrow) attaching to the suspension of the air filter installation.
9. Move all wires and hoses aside and remove the battery box from the engine compartment.
Installation
1. Installation is made in sequence, return to removal.
2. After connecting the terminals to the battery, grease them with petroleum jelly.
3. After connecting the battery, turn on the ignition for 10 seconds before starting the engine. This will allow electronic systems and control units to enter the operating mode.