Specific Gravity Test; Load Test; Charging Procedure - Polaris RANGER 500 2018 Service Manual

SPECIFIC GRAVITY TEST

A tool such as a Battery Hydrometer (PN 2870836) can
be used to measure electrolyte strength or specific
gravity. As the battery goes through the charge/
discharge cycle, the electrolyte goes from a heavy (more
acidic) state at full charge to a light (more water) state
when discharged. The hydrometer can measure state of
charge and differences between cells in a multi-cell
battery. Readings of 1.270 or greater should be observed
in a fully charged battery. Differences of more than .025
between the lowest and highest cell readings indicate a
need to replace the battery.
SPECIFIC GRAVITY
State of Charge* YuMicron™ Type
100% Charged
1.275
75% Charged
1.225
50% Charged
1.175
25% Charged
1.135
0% Charged
1.115 or less
* At 80° F. NOTE: Subtract .01 from the specific gravity
reading at 40° F.
9928485 R01 - 2017-2018 RANGER 500 / 570 Service Manual
© Copyright Polaris Industries Inc.

LOAD TEST

A battery may indicate a full charge condition in the OCV
test and the specific gravity test, but still may not have
the storage capacity necessary to properly function in the
electrical system. For this reason, a battery capacity or
load test should be conducted whenever poor battery
performance is encountered.
This is the best test of battery condition under starting
load. Use a load testing device that has an adjustable
load. Apply a load of three times the ampere-hour rating.
At 14 seconds into the test, check battery voltage. A
good 12V battery will have at least 10.5 Volts. If the
reading is low, charge the battery and retest.

CHARGING PROCEDURE

1. Remove the battery to prevent damage from leaking
or spilled acid during charging.
2. Charge the battery with a charging output no larger
than 1/10 of the battery's amp/hr rating. Charge at
0.1Ah for max of 15 hours. The battery is faulty if it
does not achieve a specific gravity of 1.270 after 15
hours.
3. Install battery in vehicle. Coat threads of battery bolt
with a corrosion resistant dielectric grease.
Dielectric Grease:
PN 2871329
4. Connect battery cables.
WARNING
To avoid the possibility of explosion, connect positive
(+) cable first and negative (-) cable last.
5. After connecting the battery cables, install the cover
on the battery and attach the hold down strap.
6. Install clear battery vent tube from vehicle to battery
vent.
WARNING
Vent tube must be free from obstructions and kinks and
securely installed. If not, battery gases could
accumulate and cause an explosion. Vent should be
routed away from frame and body to prevent contact
with electrolyte. Avoid skin contact with electrolyte, as
severe burns could result. If electrolyte contacts the
vehicle frame, corrosion will occur.
7. Route cables so they are tucked away in front and
behind battery.
ELECTRICAL
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