Testing The Batteries - Monaco LaPalma Owner's Manual

Temperature and recent battery activity (charging or discharging)
affect the hydrometer readings. It is best to check the battery when it has
been "at rest" for at least three hours, although readings taken at other
times will give a "ballpark" figure. When using the hydrometer, draw the
electrolyte solution up into the tube. Allow the hydrometer to attain the
same temperature as the electrolyte solution. Note the reading for that
cell. Complete the same test for the rest of the cells on that battery bank.
The hydrometer is calibrated at 80° F. Temperature affects the
hydrometer readings. The higher the electrolyte temperature, the higher
the specific gravity reading. The lower the temperature, the lower the
specific gravity reading. Add or subtract four points for each 10° variance
from the 80° F chart. Readings between cells should not vary more than
50 points.
If one cell in a particular battery bank being tested is at a 50% state of
charge while the others are indicating a full charge, charge only that
battery to see if the low cell will come up. At the same time, do not over
charge the "healthy" cells.
If the low cell does not come up after charging, this battery can
damage the rest of the battery bank and should be replaced. An accurate
digital volt meter + - .5% will also give an indicator of the battery's state
of charge.
Another test that can be performed is to place a specific load on the
battery for a predetermined length of time equal to that particular battery's
rating. This machine is usually an adjustable carbon pile that can vary the
load being applied to the battery(s) while monitoring voltage to see if they
will perform to their specific rated capacities.
NOTE: See the Temperature Compensation Chart.
Liquid levels should be even between the cells of the
battery being tested as it will affect the accuracy of the
test.
WARNING: Sulfuric acid in the batteries can cause
severe injury or death. Sulfuric acid can cause
permanent damage to eyes, burn skin and eat holes in
clothing. Always wear splash-proof safety goggles when
working around the battery. If the battery electrolyte is
splashed in the eyes, or on skin, immediately flush the
affected area for 15 minutes with large quantities of
clean water. In case of eye contact, seek immediate
medical aid. Never add acid to a battery once the
battery has been placed in service. Doing so may result in
hazardous splattering of electrolyte.
2004 • LaPalma
Electrical Systems

Testing the Batteries

030815
Temperature Compensation Chart
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