These vehicles may be equipped with one or more batteries, depending on the powertrain used and the optional equipment. The battery is completely sealed except for two small vent holes in the sides. These vent holes allow the small amount of gas produced in the battery to escape.
The battery has three functions in the electrical system. First, it provides a source of energy for cranking the engine. Second, it acts as a voltage stabilizer for the electrical system. And finally, it can, for a limited time, provide energy when the electrical load used exceeds the output of the generator.
The battery specifications label located on the top of the battery contains information pertinent to the servicing of the battery. This information includes test ratings and original equipment and recommended replacement part numbers.
The time required to charge a battery will vary depending upon four factors: the size of the battery, the temperature, the charger capacity and the state-of-charge of the battery.
| • | Size of the battery -- A completely discharged heavy-duty battery requires more than twice the recharging time as a completely discharged light-duty battery. |
| • | Temperature -- The colder the battery, the more time it takes to recharge. When a fast charger is connected to a cold battery, the current accepted by the battery will be very low at first. In time, the battery will accept a higher charging rate as the battery warms. |
| • | Charger capacity -- The higher the charger amperage, the less time it will take to charge the battery. |
| • | State-of-charge -- A completely discharged battery requires more than twice as much charge as a one-half charged battery. Because the electrolyte is nearly pure water and a poor conductor in a completely discharged battery, the current accepted by the battery is very low at first. Later, as the charging current causes the electrolyte acid contact to increase, the charging current will also increase. |
Any battery discharged by parasitic current drain, and then allowed to stand in this condition for a period of time, may not accept a charge readily. However, if recharged long enough, many batteries will return to a usable condition.
If the battery remains in an extremely discharged condition for a prolonged period, it can become permanently damaged. This damage can be accelerated by changes in temperature. Batteries that are extremely discharged can freeze at temperatures as high as - 7 ° C (20 ° F) and be permanently damaged.
In order to prevent battery damage and recharge problems, vehicles that are not going to be in service within a 30 day period should have the negative battery cable disconnected in order to remove the constant drain on the battery. If this is not possible, recharge the battery periodically every 30-45 days.
