Specific Gravity Test; Load Test - Polaris Magnum 2x4 Service Manual

ELECTRICAL
Battery Service
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.
OPEN CIRCUIT VOLTAGE
State of Conventional YuMicron™
charge Lead-acid Type
100% 12.60V 12.70V
Polaris PN 2870876
Charged
12.40V 12.50V
75% Charged 12.10V 12.20V
50% Charged 11.90V 12.0V
25% Charged less than 11 .80V less than 11.9V
Detail A
0% Charged
SPECIFIC GRAVITY
State of Conventional YuMicron™
charge* lead-acid Type
100% 1.265 1.275
Charged 1.210 1.225
75% Charged 1.160 1.175
50% Charged 1.120 1.135
25% Charged less than 1.100 less than 1.115
0% Charged
* At 80°F
NOTE: Subtract .01 from the specific gravity reading at 40" F.
Load Test
CAUTION:
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 electric starter and view the registered battery voltage while cranking the engine. Continue the test for 15 seconds.
During this cranking period, the observed voltage should not drop below 9.5 volts. If the beginning voltage is 12.6
or higher and the cranking voltage drops below 9.5 volts during the test, replace the battery.
7/96 10.22
Polaris Industries Inc.