Information about Automobiles

• Hydrometer Test: Using a hydrometer, measure the specific gravity (corrected to 27 degrees) of the electrolyte in each cell.
• Load Test: The load test is meant to gauge the battery's ability to withstand the load when the vehicle has to be cranked. Usually a fixed load tester is used for this purpose. Connect the load tester to the battery terminals with the help of metal spring clamps. Ensure that the clamp-terminal contact is firm. Apply test load and note the voltage after 5 seconds. The voltage reading of a healthy battery after 5 seconds of discharge should exceed a required minimum voltage as specified by technical specs.
• Retention of Charge Test: The battery should be charged and kept undisturbed for at least 7 days before checking the charge. Results obtained in the first two tests should not increase the specific gravity by 20 points. If the loss is not greater than 15 points, assume that the battery has passed the first two checks. In case the loss is greater than 20 points, battery replacement is recommended.
• Check earth leakage in the vehicle: Switch off all the on-off switches, cassette player, clock, etc before earth testing your battery. Leakage upto 2V is within limits. If there is no leakage proceed to Step 4. If there is earth leakage, identify the leak and take corrective action.