Charging System Test - Toro Workman HDX Auto Service Manual

Electrical System Quick Checks
Battery Test (Open Circuit Test)
Use a multimeter to measure the voltage between the
battery terminals.
Set the multimeter to the DC volts setting. The battery
should be at a temperature of 60
o
38 C). The ignition key should be in the OFF position
and all accessories turned off. Connect the positive (+)
meter lead to the positive battery post and the negative
(−) meter lead to the negative battery post.
NOTE: This test provides a relative condition of the bat-
tery. Load testing of the battery will provide additional
and more accurate information (see Battery Service in
the Service and Repairs section of this Chapter).

Charging System Test

This is a simple test used to determine if a charging sys-
tem is functioning. It will tell you if a charging system has
an output, but not its capacity.
Use a multimeter set to the DC volts setting. Connect the
positive (+) meter lead to the positive battery post and
the negative (−) meter lead to the negative battery post.
Leave the test leads connected and record the battery
voltage.
NOTE: Upon starting the engine, the battery voltage will
drop and then should increase once the engine is run-
ning.
NOTE: Depending upon the condition of the battery
charge and battery temperature, the charging system
voltage will increase at different rates as the battery
charges.
Workman HDX Auto
o o o
F to 100 F (16 C to
Start the engine and run at high idle. Allow the battery to
charge for at least three (3) minutes. Record the battery
voltage.
An example of a charging system that is functioning:
Page 6 − 7
Voltage Measured
12.68 v (or higher)
12.45 v
12.24 v
12.06 v
11.89 v (or lower)
At least 0.50 volt over initial battery voltage.
Initial Battery Voltage
Battery Voltage after 3 Minute Charge
Difference
Battery Charge Level
Fully charged (100%)
75% charged
50% charged
25% charged
0% charged
= 12.30 v
= 12.95 v
= +0.65 v
Electrical System