Molded into the top of
the maintenance-free battery is a built-in temperature compensated hydrometer.
Ensure that the battery top is clean when observing the hydrometer.
Use a flashlight in order to observe the hydrometer in poorly lit areas.
Do not produce any sparks. Use this hydrometer with the following diagnostic
procedure.
Under normal operation, 1 of the following 3 indications will be observed:
- The green dot is visible
(A).
• | Any green appearance in the hydrometer is interpreted as a green
dot. |
- When the green dot can not be seen (B). The charging is below
65 percent.
• | In order to Inspect the charging system for excessive draw, refer
to Battery Electrical Drain/Parasitic Load
. |
- The dot appears clear or light yellow (C).
• | A diagnosis can not be made at this fluid level. |
• | A clear or light yellow dot means that the fluid level is below
the bottom of the hydrometer. |
The following can cause a low fluid condition:
A battery found with a low fluid condition can indicate a high charging
voltage, caused by a faulty charging system. The charging system must be checked
for specified output. The electrical system must be tested for a parasitic
drain. Refer to
Charging System Check
.
Replace the battery when there is a yellow or clear hydrometer along
with a cranking comment. Refer to
Battery Replacement
.