Note: The electrolyte level in batteries with a transparent casing is checked visually using the level mark.
During operation, battery failures are possible due to a high level of its discharge. The reasons may be slipping of the generator drive belt, generator malfunction, connection of additional (non-standard) consumers beyond the permissible limits, increased self-discharge due to severe surface contamination.
The condition of the battery is checked by measuring the density of the electrolyte with a densimeter.
The measured density of the electrolyte is compared with the values in Table 8.1, which allows you to assess the condition of the battery.
Table 8.1 Battery charge level depending on electrolyte density
The density of the electrolyte in all cans should be the same and differ from each other by no more than ±0.02 g/cm³. If the density of the electrolyte in neighboring cans differs sharply, then the battery has a short circuit and is faulty.
Inspect the battery and make sure of the following:
- there are no cracks or signs of damage on the battery case or cover;
- there are no traces of dirt on the top of the battery;
- the terminals are in good condition;
- there are no salt deposits on the terminals (sulfation).
Check the tightness of the wire clamp nuts on the terminals. Poor contact between the wire tips and terminals may prevent the engine from starting and reduce the efficiency of charging the battery. In addition, if the contact is poor, sparking occurs, which may lead to an explosion of the battery.
Clean and lubricate with neutral grease (technical vaseline) battery terminals and wire ends.
Check the electrolyte level by unscrewing the plugs on the top of the battery.
On batteries with removable caps, remove the cap by hand or with a tool (for example, a hard spatula).
Check the electrolyte level in all cans; it should be approximately 1.5 cm above the separators.
If necessary, add distilled water to the battery.
Note: The translucent housing of some batteries allows you to monitor the electrolyte level.
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Never add electrolyte, acid or other liquids to the battery.
Maintenance of batteries consists of periodically cleaning them from dust and dirt. It is also necessary to check the reliability of the battery fastening and the connection of the wire tips to the battery terminals; oxidized wire tips and terminals are cleaned. When cleaning, a minimum layer of metal should be removed, otherwise it is impossible to reliably connect the wire tips to the battery terminals. Make sure that the wires are not stretched, as this can lead to breakage of the terminals or the battery cover. Lubricate the wire tips and terminals with technical petroleum jelly.
If the vehicle is not used for more than one month, it is recommended to remove the cable from the negative terminal of the battery. In case of long breaks in operation (winter period) remove the battery from the vehicle and store it in a cool room, but at a positive temperature. It is recommended to recharge the battery in storage every three months.
Each discharge, especially a long one, reduces the life of the battery.
Attention
The electrolyte is a sulfuric acid solution. If the electrolyte gets on your skin, wash the affected area with plenty of water.
In case of severe chemical burn (especially the eyes) seek medical attention.
If electrolyte gets on metal surfaces, treat them with a soda solution.
When charging a battery, free hydrogen is released - risk of explosion. Do not smoke or use open flames near the battery.
Do not place conductive objects on the battery cover - there is a risk of spark discharge if the battery terminals are short-circuited.