Battery Testing - Polaris msx 110 Service Manual

Battery Testing

WARNING: Whenever installing batteries, care should be taken to avoid the possibility of explosion,
resulting in serious burns. Always connect the positive (red) cable first and the negative (black) cable last. When
working with batteries, always wear safety glasses or a face shield and protective gloves. Battery electrolyte
contains sulfuric acid and is poisonous! Serious burns can result from contact with the skin, eyes or clothing.
ANTIDOTE: External - Flush with water. Internal - Drink large quantities of water or milk. Follow with milk of
magnesia, beaten egg, or vegetable oil. Call physician immediately. Eyes - Flush with water for 15 minutes and
get prompt medical attention.
Preparing A New Battery For Service
NOTE: Do not service the battery unless it will be put into regular service within 30 days.
To assure maximum service life and performance from a battery, it must have proper initial servicing. To service a
new battery, the following steps must be taken:
Remove vent plug from vent fitting.
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Fill battery with electrolyte to upper level marks on case.
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Set battery aside and allow it to cool and stabilize for 1/2 hour.
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Add electrolyte to bring level back to upper level mark on case. NOTE: This is the last
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time that electrolyte should be added. If the level becomes low after this point, add only
distilled water.
Charge battery at 1/3 of its amp/hr rating for up to 2 hrs. NOTE: This charge rate is to
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be used only on new batteries during the first-time charge. After this charge, they should
be charged at the normal charge rate of 1/10 of amp/hr.
Check specific gravity of each cell with a hydrometer to assure each has a reading of
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1.270 or higher.
Battery Testing
There are three tests which can easily be made to determine a battery's condition. Whenever the complaint is
related to either the starting or charging systems, the battery should be checked first.
OCV - Open Circuit Voltage Test
Battery voltage should be checked with a digital multitester. Readings of 12.4 DCV or less require further battery
testing and charging.
NOTE: Lead-acid batteries should be kept at or as near full charge as possible. If the battery is stored or used
in a partially charged condition, hard crystal sulfation will form on the plates, reducing their efficiency and possibly
ruining the battery.
2004 Four Stroke PWC Service Manual
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
8.5