Like most things, batteries have a life span, which
can be extended by the following simple points on maintenance.
Cleanliness is important as a dirty lid can form
a self discharge path. Keep the battery clean by washing
it with a solution of bicarbonate of soda, ratio of
1 teaspoon of bicarb per litre of hot water, rinse
well with clean water. This will neutralise any acidity
present on the battery as well as in the tray.
Ensure cable clamps and battery terminals are free
from oxidation and corrosion. Clean with a special
tool or sand paper, use a round file for inside the
terminals. Clean metal to metal contact between the
clamps and terminals reduces resistance and therefore
assists in starting and charging. By simply cleaning
the terminals and cable clamps you can improve the
performance of a sluggish battery.
Check the fan belt from time to time for tension
and / or wear, adjust or replace it with a Dunlop
Ultra fan belt, if necessary. If the alternator or
generator is not running correctly due to a slipping
or worn belt, the battery will not charge and as a
result will tend to run down. Check the charging rate,
it should be between 13.6 and 14.2 volts.
If the battery keeps going flat, it could be the
alternator or generator, that is not charging properly,
have it checked by an auto electrician.
A hydrometer is an essential tool to determine
the internal condition of the battery. In the course
of operation the plates absorb sulphates from the
electrolyte which reduces the specific gravity of
the electrolyte. Readings as follows:
100% charged S.G. = 1250 points.
75% charged S.G. = 1225 points.
50% charged S.G. = 1190 points.
25% charged S.G. = 1155 points.
Below 1200 points the battery needs to be charged
until all the cells read 1250 S.G. points.
When charging a battery remember to remove both
leads from the battery and connect the positive lead
from the charger to the positive terminal on the battery
and negative lead to the negative terminal. Remove
the battery caps to allow the gasses to escape as
the battery charges. Always charge in a well ventilated
area. Charge under 5 Amps, boost charging is not recommended.
Lower amperage means a longer charging time but results
in proper charge. Give the battery at least an evening
to charge.
Check the electrolyte level on a regular basis,
it should be approximately 13mm above the plates.
Do not over fill as this can cause acid spillage and
lead to corrosive damage. Top up with distilled water,
do not use battery acid.
Additives to the electrolyte are not recommended.
At best they are a short term solution as they do
not treat the cause of the problem.
It is advisable to check the battery casing for
chips and cracks on a regular basis, also make sure
it is clamped firmly in place. If the battery is loose,
it will be damaged by vibration. Do not over tighten
the hold down clamps as this could cause distortion
and crack the casing.
Batteries produce oxygen and hydrogen in the course
of operation, do not smoke or cause sparking near
the battery as this could lead to an explosion.
If you have to pump or push start the vehicle the
battery must be removed and charged to 1250 S.G. points
per cell. The alternator will not fully charge no
matter how far you drive.
Storing a discharged battery leads to permanent
sulphation of the plates.
First National Battery - the leading manufacturer
of batteries, offer a free testing facility and a
variety of tools and technical advice. Visit a First
National Battery branch or a Midas Motor Parts Centre
for further information.
Midas Motor Parts Centres recommend MIDAS OR CHLORIDE
BATTERIES.
INDEMNITY
Remember this is for information only, for more details
consult the workshop manual for your vehicle.
