GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Battery Charging

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

  1. Access and store any Diagnostic Trouble Codes which may be prevent. Refer to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check in Engine Controls -- 2.2L or Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check in Engine Controls -- 4.3L.
  2. Place the Ignition Switch in the Lock position.
  3. Remove the battery. Refer to the Removal Procedure in Battery Replacement .
  4. Observe that the battery hydrometer does not display a clear or a yellow dot.
  5. Install the GM P/N 12303040 Battery Terminal Adapters.
  6. Tighten to 15 N·m (11 Lb Ft).
  7. If required, allow the battery to warm until it's estimated temperature is between 15°C and 38°C (60°F and 100°F).
  8. Connect the battery charger following the manufacturer's instructions.
  9. If a voltmeter is not provided in the battery charger, connect a voltmeter between the battery terminals.
  10. Operate the 16 Volt battery charger following the manufacturer's instructions.
  11. Attempt to charge the battery at the highest charging current available up to 40 amperes.
  12. After three minutes, read the battery voltage.

Is the battery voltage more than 15.5 Volts?

40 Amperes

Go to Step 2.

Go to Step 3.

2

  1. Place the battery charger in Off.
  2. Disconnect the battery charger.
  3. Remove the voltmeter, if connected.
  4. Remove the battery terminal adapters.
  5. Install a replacement battery. Refer to the Installation Procedure in Battery Replacement .

Is the new battery installed?

--

Go to Engine Electrical Diagnostic System Check .

--

3

  1. Adjust the battery charger for the desired charging current.
  2. Use a high charging current adjustment if current is not initially measurable or on-scale.
  3. Do not exceed 40 amperes.
  4. Use the lowest charging current which is practical when the current is indicated.

Is the battery charger operating?

--

Go to Step 4.

--

4

    • While the battery is charging, monitor the battery periodically. Monitor the battery hourly until the charging current is on-scale and stable. The battery should be accepting a measurable current within 4 hours at 16 volts. Adjust the current as required.
    • As the battery warms in the charging process, the charging current will tend to increase. Adjust the current as required.
    • If the battery feels hot (52°C or 125°F, then reduce the charging current.
    • If the battery is gassing excessively, then reduce the charging current.
    • If electrolyte is being vented, then reduce the charging current.
    • Tap the battery hydrometer lightly on top to dislodge any trapped gas bubbles.

Is the battery charging properly?

--

Go to Step 5.

Go to Step 2.

5

Inspect the battery hydrometer. Does the battery hydrometer display a green dot?

--

Go to Step 6.

Go to Step 4.

6

  1. Place the battery charger in Off.
  2. Disconnect the battery charger.
  3. Remove the voltmeter, if connected.
  4. Remove the battery terminal adapters.
  5. Install the battery. Refer to the Installation Procedure in Battery Replacement .

Is the battery installed?

--

Go to Battery Load Test .

--