Installation; Testing; Charging - Piper 6X Maintenance Manual

B.

Installation

CAUTION: DO NOT INSTALL BATTERY WITH REVERSE POLARITY. CONNECT GROUND TO
NEGATIVE TERMINAL OF BATTERY.
(1) Ensure that all vent lines are free of kinks, cracks, and loose connections. Replace only with
special hoses specified in Parts Catalog. (DO NOT USE ORDINARY RUBBER HOSE.)
(2) Properly position battery on shelf.
(3) Connect manifold overflow/vent line.
(4) Connect battery cables. First, connect and secure the positive cable; then, connect and secure
the ground (negative) cable.
(5) Install and secure battery hold down bolts
(6) Reinstall aft fuselage access panel or floor panel and external access panel, as appropriate.
C.

Testing

Specific gravity values for checking battery charge using a hydrometer are listed in Chart 2. If the
alternator output is known to be correct, battery capability can be more accurately determined with
a load type tester.
HYDROMETER READING AND BATTERY CHARGE PERCENT
D.

Charging

CAUTION: NEVER ALLOW LEAD ACID BATTERIES OR TOOLS USED ON THEM TO BE NEAR
NI-CAD BATTERIES AND NI-CAD BATTERY TOOLS.
CAUTION: WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN CHARGING BATTERY. ENSURE THE CHARGING
AREA IS WELL VENTILATED. IF CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING IS USED, VENT
BATTERY CHARGING AREA TO OUTSIDE AIR TO PREVENT HYDROGEN GASSES
FROM BEING CIRCULATED THROUGHOUT THE BUILDING.
NOTE: Refer to latest version of applicable battery manufacturer's service manual for any
limitations or special charging procedures.
The National Electric Code forbids charging batteries that are installed in aircraft or are within 10
feet of fuel tank areas. Accordingly, remove battery from the airplane for charging. Further, an
aircraft battery should not be allowed to deteriorate to the point where safety of flight is jeopardized.
The batteries emergency capacity should be sufficient to power the essential bus for a minimum of
thirty minutes.
(1) Remove battery from airplane.
(2) Remove cell plugs and ensure that vents in plugs are open and that vent valves operate freely.
(3) Check that the electrolyte level in each cell is at the bottom of the split ring.
(4) A hydrometer check of each cell should be accomplished. (Refer to Chart 2.)
2G23
THE NEW PIPER AIRCRAFT, INC.
PA-32-301FT / 301XTC
MAINTENANCE MANUAL
CHART 2
Hydrometer Reading
1280
1250
1220
1190
1160
1130 or below
Percent of Charge
100
75
50
25
Very little useful capacity
Discharged
24-30-00 PAGE 23
Jun 1/03