Test your Battery

[telcoman]

As we approach the winter season there are always questions about batteries. As my battery approaches the four year mark I tested mine this morning. I will continue to monitor the cells each month as the battery ages.

An inexpensive battery hydrometer for measuring the specific gravity of each cell shown below is about $10.00.



Remove the battery cover and the five plastic clips surrounding the battery to gain better access to the six plastic battery cell caps and remove them.



Insert the hydrometer into each cell of the battery by squeezing the bulb to draw enough liquid into the hydrometer to float the insert.

After observing the reading squeeze the bulb to force the liquid back into the cell.

Repeat for each cell.

A fully charged battery will give a specific gravity reading of 1.260

A reading of 1.190 indicates a 50% charged cell.

A variation of 20 or more specific gravity points indicates a bad or weak cell.

If liquid for any cell is required do so after testing. Use distilled water.

A weak battery cell just before winter almost guarantees you are going to have a starting problem on the first cold morning.

I never purchase batteries without vent caps as it prevents testing with a hydrometer.

Telcoman


Modified by telcoman at 6:34 AM 10/25/2009

[SVTCOBRA]

wife's 05 sedan battery OEM is sounding a bit weak, might pick one of these up and give it a test!

[telcoman]

wife's 05 sedan battery OEM is sounding a bit weak, might pick one of these up and give it a test!

More than likely you are due for a battery replacement soon.

Do the testing but be prepared for a battery replacement with an 05.

Batteries contain sulfuric acid so wipe up any drips and avoid getting any on clothes and hands. I also rinse out the hydrometer with plain water after each use.

Telcoman