Conventional Battery Specific Gravity Test; Conventional Battery Load Test - Polaris Hawkeye Repair Manual

CONVENTIONAL BATTERY
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.
Battery Hydrometer (PN 2870836)
Detail A
OPEN CIRCUIT VOLTAGE
State of Conventional
charge Lead-acid
100% Charged 12.60 V
75% Charged 12.40 V
50% Charged 12.10 V
25% Charged 11.90 V
0% Charged less than
11.80 V
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1.10
1.15
1.20
1.25
1.30
Low
Maintenance
Type
12.70 V
12.50 V
12.20 V
12.0 V
less than
11.9 V
SPECIFIC GRAVITY
State of Conventional
charge* Lead-acid
100% Charged 1.265
75% Charged 1.210
50% Charged 1.160
25% Charged 1.120
0% Charged less than 1.100
* At 80
NOTE: Subtract .01 from the specific gravity reading at 40
CONVENTIONAL BATTERY
LOAD TEST
CAUTION
To prevent shock or component damage, remove
spark plug high tension leads and connect securely
to engine ground before proceeding.
NOTE: This test can only be performed on machines with
electric starters. This test cannot be performed with an
engine or starting system that is not working properly.
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.
To perform this test, hook a multitester to the battery in the
same manner as was done in the OCV test. The reading should
be 12.6 volts or greater. Engage the starter and observe the
battery voltage while cranking the engine. Continue the test for
15 seconds. During cranking the observed voltage should not
drop below 9.5 volts. If the beginning voltage is 12.6 volts or
higher and the cranking voltage drops below 9.5 volts during
the test, replace the battery.
ELECTRICAL
Low
Maintenance
Type
1.275
1.225
1.175
1.135
less than 1.115
o
F
o
F.
9.21