Battery Charging

A battery is considered fully charged when it will meet all the following requirements.

- It has an open circuit voltage charge of at least 12.4 volts (refer to Battery Open Circuit Voltage table).

Battery Open Circuit Voltage
Open Circuit Volts Charge Percentage
11.7 Volts or less 0 %
12.0 Volts 25 %
12.2 Volts 50 %
12.4 Volts 75 %
12.6 Volts or more 100 %

Battery Load Temperature Table:

- It passes the 15 second load test, refer to Battery Load Test Temperatures Table.

WARNING:
- DO NOT ASSIST BOOST OR CHARGE A FROZEN BATTERY.

- EXPLOSIVE GASES FORM OVER THE BATTERY, DO NOT SMOKE, USE FLAME, OR CREATE SPARKS NEAR BATTERY.

CAUTION: Disconnect the battery NEGATIVE cable first, before charging battery to avoid damage to electrical systems. Do not exceed 16.0 volts while charging battery. Refer to the instructions supplied with charging equipment

Battery electrolyte will bubble inside of battery case while being charged properly. If the electrolyte boils violently, or is discharged from the vent holes while charging, immediately reduce charging rate or turn off charger. Evaluate battery condition. Battery damage may occur if charging is excessive.

Some battery chargers are equipped with polarity sensing devices to protect the charger or battery from being damaged if improperly connected. If the battery state of charge is too low for the polarity sensor to detect, the sensor must be bypassed for charger to operate. Refer to operating instructions provided with battery charger being used.

CAUTION: Do not overcharge Battery. Refer to Battery Charging Rate table.

After the battery has been charged to 12.4 volts or greater, perform a load test to determine cranking capacity. Refer to Battery Load Test. If the battery will endure a load test, return the battery to use. If battery will not endure a load test, it must be replaced. Properly clean and inspect battery hold downs, tray, terminals, cables, posts, and top before completing service.