It is necessary to work with the rechargeable battery in goggles. The electrolyte is very aggressive. Never allow droplets of acid and particles containing lead compounds to come into contact with eyes, skin or clothing.
When batteries are charged, an explosive mixture of gases is released. When working with wires and electrical appliances, it is forbidden to use fire, sparking devices, open flammable light devices and smoking. Avoid sparks when handling wires and electrical devices.
Before carrying out any work on the electrical system of the vehicle, disconnect «negative» battery wire.
Checking the electrolyte level
The battery is virtually maintenance-free under normal vehicle operating conditions. At high ambient temperatures, it is recommended to check the electrolyte level in the battery from time to time.
In an opaque serviced battery, measure the electrolyte level with a hollow glass tube, covering one end with your finger. In taken «sample» the height of the liquid column inside the tube will correspond to the height of the excess of the electrolyte level from the top edge of the plates.
Be sure to check the electrolyte level when charging the battery. It must always be between the labels «MIN» and «MAX», printed on the longitudinal sides of the battery.
If the electrolyte level drops, add distilled water to the appropriate jars up to the mark «MAX». This should be done before the electrolyte level falls below the «MIN».
Attention! Do not fill the electrolyte above the required level, as it will flow out through the vent. This can damage the paintwork and corrode the bodywork.
After topping up the electrolyte, tightly close the appropriate battery banks with stoppers.
Electrolyte Density Check
Check the density of the electrolyte in the battery every 3 months.
The check is made with a hydrometer. When determining the density of an electrolyte, consider its temperature. For electrolyte temperatures below 15°C, for every 10°C below this temperature, subtract 0.007 g/cm from the measured density3; over 15°C - add 0.007 g/cm3.
After determining the density of the electrolyte in each battery bank, set the degree of its discharge according to Table. 15.3.
Measure the density of the electrolyte in each jar. Density difference 0.04 g/cm3 or more between any two banks indicates electrolyte loss or plate sulfation.
If the density of the electrolyte between any two banks differs by more than 0.04 g/cm3, the battery needs to be replaced. If the density of the electrolyte is lower than required, but the same in all banks, the battery must be charged.
Check the performance of a maintenance-free battery only with a voltmeter. The state of charge of the battery with a built-in indicator is determined by the color of the indicator. The green color of the indicator corresponds to a full charge, black indicates the need for charging, blue indicates a low level of electrolyte in the battery.