Battery Service

24 of 35


BATTERY CHARGING
All battery chargers operate on the same principle: an electric current is applied to the battery to reverse the chemical action in the cells. Never connect or disconnect leads with the charger turned ON. Follow the battery charger manufacturer's instructions. DO NOT attempt to charge a battery with frozen electrolyte. When using a battery charger, always disconnect the battery ground cable first. This will minimize the possibility of damage to the alternator or electronic components in the vehicle. The battery can be considered fully charged when all cells are gassing freely and when there is no change in specific gravity readings for more than one hour.

A slow charge is 5 or 10 amps while a fast charge is generally 15 amps or higher. A slow charge is always preferred.