Visual Inspection - Battery

CAUTION: Refer to Battery Precaution Caution in Cautions and Notices.

Check for obvious damage, such as a cracked or broken case or cover or overcharging of the electrical system that could permit loss of electrolyte.

If obvious damage is noted, replace the battery. If overcharging of the system is detected, refer to Battery Is Undercharged or Overcharged. If visual inspection passes refer to the following checks: Battery Is Undercharged or Overcharged






1. Any green appearance in the hydrometer is interpreted as a green dot. The green dot means the battery is at least 65 percent charged and is ready for testing. Refer to Battery Load Test. Battery Load Test






2. When the green dot can not be seen (Dark Dot), the charge is below 65 percent. Charge the battery and test. Refer to Battery Charging. Service and Repair
^ If there is a cranking complaint, ensure that the battery is in a full state of charge and proceed to diagnose the starter motor. Refer to Starting System Check. System Check - Starting System
^ To check the charging system for insufficient voltage, ensure that the battery is in a full state of charge and proceed to diagnose the charging system. Refer to Charging System Check. System Check - Charging System






3. The dot appears clear or light yellow.
^ A clear or light yellow dot means that the fluid level is below the bottom of the hydrometer.
^ A diagnosis can not be made at this fluid level. Replace the battery.

The following can cause a low fluid condition:
^ Overcharging
^ A cracked battery case
^ Tipping the battery

Visually check the battery for damage. If damage is present, replace the battery. If overcharging of the battery is the cause of low fluid condition, the charging system must be checked for specified output. Refer to Charging System Check System Check - Charging System