TM 5-3805-280-24-2
Batteries, Support, and Cables
PROCEDURE FOR TESTING BATTERIES
b. Record specific gravity reading for each cell.
1. VISUAL CHECK
c. If high and low readings vary LESS than 0.050
a. Check for damage such as cracked or broken
and average specific gravity is between 1.225
case and electrolyte leakage.
and 1.280, battery is fully charged, go to LOAD
TEST.
If damage is seen, replace battery.
d. If high and low readings vary LESS than 0.050
b. Check electrolyte level. (See procedure in this
and average specific gravity is LESS than 1.225,
group.)
charge battery and repeat test. If average
specific gravity is still LESS than 1.225, replace
If low, add distilled water to specified level and
both batteries.
charge battery.
e. If high and low readings vary MORE than 0.050,
c. Check terminals for corrosion.
charge battery and repeat test. If high and low
readings still vary MORE than 0.050, replace
If corroded, clean using a wire brush or battery
both batteries.
post cleaner such as JT05838 Battery
Post/Clamp Cleaner.
3. LOAD TEST
d. Check posts for looseness.
a. Check battery capacity with a load tester such
as JT05832 Battery Load Tester. Follow tester
If posts are loose, replace battery.
manufacturer's instructions for proper load test
procedures.
2. HYDROMETER TEST
16
b. If one battery fails load test, replace both
a. Check specific gravity with a hydrometer or
1671
batteries.
battery tester such as JT05460 Coolant/Battery
4
Tester.
TX,16,UU3538
1919SEP981/1
16-4
