Monaco DIPLOMAT 2004 Owner's Manual page 316

DIPLOMAT 2004
030815
Temperature Compensation
Chart
8 •316
Temperature and recent battery activity (charging or discharging)
affect the hydrometer readings. It is best to check the battery when it has
been "at rest" for at least three hours, although readings taken at other
times will give a "ballpark" figure. When using the hydrometer, draw the
electrolyte solution up into the tube. Allow the hydrometer to attain the
same temperature as the electrolyte solution. Note the reading for that
cell. Complete the same test for the rest of the cells on that battery bank.
The hydrometer is calibrated at 80° F. Temperature affects the hydrom-
eter readings. The higher the electrolyte temperature, the higher the spe-
cific gravity reading. The lower the temperature, the lower the specific
gravity reading. Add or subtract four points for each 10° variance from
the 80° F chart. Readings between cells should not vary more than 50
points.
If one cell in a particular battery bank being tested is at a 50%
state of charge while the others are indicating a full charge, charge
only that battery to see if the low cell will come up. At the same time,
do not over charge the "healthy" cells.
If the low cell does not come up after charging, this battery can
damage the rest of the battery bank and should be replaced. An accu-
rate digital volt meter + - .5% will also give an indicator of the bat-
tery's state of charge.
Another test that can be performed is to place a specific load on
the battery for a predetermined length of time equal to that particular
battery's rating. This machine is usually an adjustable carbon pile that
can vary the load being applied to the battery(s) while monitoring
voltage to see if they will perform to their specific rated capacities.
NOTE: See the Temperature Compensation Chart.
Liquid levels should be even between the cells of the
battery being tested as it will affect the accuracy of the
test.
WARNING: Sulfuric acid in the batteries can cause
severe injury or death. Sulfuric acid can cause
permanent damage to eyes, burn skin and eat holes in
clothing. Always wear splash-proof safety goggles
when working around the battery. If the battery
electrolyte is splashed in the eyes, or on skin,
immediately flush the affected area for 15 minutes with
large quantities of clean water. In case of eye contact,
seek immediate medical aid. Never add acid to a
battery once the battery has been placed in service.
Doing so may result in hazardous splattering of
electrolyte.
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