BATTERY — How to Handle Battery (Cont'd) — Checking Electrolyte Level / Sulphation / Specific Gravity Check
EL-10prose procedureSulphation threshold: SG < 1.100 indicates likely permanent sulphation damage.
How to Handle Battery (Cont'd)
CHECKING ELECTROLYTE LEVEL
WARNING
Do not allow battery fluid to come in contact with skin, eyes, fabrics, or painted surfaces. After touching a battery, do not touch or rub your eyes until you have thoroughly washed your hands. If the acid contacts the eyes, skin or clothing, immediately flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
NOTE
Normally the battery does not require additional water. However, when the battery is used under severe conditions, adding distilled water may be necessary during the battery life.
Checking electrolyte level
- 1Remove the cell plug using a suitable tool.
- 2Add distilled water up to the MAX level.
SULPHATION
NOTE
When a battery has been left unattended for a long period of time and has a specific gravity of less than 1.100, it will be completely discharged, resulting in sulphation on the cell plates. Compared with a battery discharged under normal conditions, the current flow in a "sulphated" battery is not as smooth although its voltage is high during the initial stage of charging, as shown in the figure at the left.
Specific gravity check
- 1Read hydrometer and thermometer indications at eye level.