Battery Testing Procedure

STEP 1. Check the battery cables .
1. Remove the negative cable, then the positive cable.
2. Check for dirty or corroded connections.
Q: Are the battery cables dirty or have corroded connections?

YES: Clean the battery cables. Then go to Step 2.

NO: Go to Step 2.
STEP 2. Check the battery posts .
Check for loose battery post.

Q: Are the battery posts loose?

Yes: Replace the battery.

NO: Go to Step 3.
STEP 3. Check the battery case and cover .
1. Remove the hold-downs and shields.
2. Check for broken/cracked case or cover.
Q: Is the battery case or cover faulty?

YES: Replace the battery.

NO: Go to Step 4.
STEP 4. Check the open circuit voltage .
1. Turn headlights on for 15 seconds.
2. Turn headlights off for two minutes to allow battery positive voltage to stabilize.
3. Disconnect the battery cables.
4. Read open circuit voltage.
Q: Is open circuit voltage 12.4 volts or more?

YES: Go to Step 6.

NO: Go to Step 5.
STEP 5. Battery charging
Charge the battery. (See CHARGE RATE CHART )

Q: Is open circuit voltage 12.4 volts or more?

YES: Go to Step 6.

NO: Replace the battery.
STEP 6. Check the load test .
1. Connect a load tester to the battery.
2. Load the battery at the recommended discharge rate (See LOAD TEST RATE CHART ) for 15 seconds.
3. Read voltage after 15 seconds, then remove load.
4. Compare the measured value with the minimum voltage. (See LOAD TEST CHART .)
Q: Is the voltage higher than minimum voltage?

YES: The battery is normal.

NO: Replace the battery.