Battery Load Test; Off Season Storage - Polaris Sportsman 800 EFI 4x4 2012 Service Manual

ELECTRICAL

Battery Load Test

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.
10.52
CAUTION
9924864 - 2012-2014 SPORTSMAN 800 / 6X6
© Copyright 2013 Polaris Sales Inc.

Off Season Storage

To prevent battery damage during extended periods of
non-use, the following basic battery maintenance items
must be performed:
• Remove the battery from the machine and wash
the case and battery tray with a mild solution of
baking soda and water. Rinse with lots of fresh
water after cleaning. NOTE: Do not get any of the
baking soda into the battery or the acid will be
neutralized.
• Using a wire brush or knife, remove any corrosion
from the cables and terminals.
• Make sure that the electrolyte is at the proper
level. Add distilled water if necessary.
• Charge at a rate no greater than 1/10 of the
battery's amp/hr capacity until the electrolyte's
specific gravity reaches 1.270 or greater.
• Store the battery either in the machine with the
cables disconnected, or store in a cool place.
NOTE: Recharge to full capacity every 30 to 60
days during a non-use period. If the battery is
stored during the winter months, electrolyte
will freeze at higher temperatures as the
battery discharges. The chart below indicates
freezing points by specific gravity.
ELECTROLYTE FREEZING POINTS
SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF
ELECTROLYTE
1.265
1.225
1.200
1.150
1.100
1.050
FREEZING POINT
-75° F
-35° F
-17° F
+5° F
+18° F
+27° F