BATTERIES
Battery Testing
Page 13-8
2005 Precedent IQ System Electric Golf Car Maintenance and Service Manual
13
Performing the Hydrometer Test, Continued:
5. Hold the hydrometer vertically, ensuring that the float is not touching the sides of the barrel. Hold the
hydrometer at eye level and read the scale at the level of electrolyte
(Figure 13-4, Page 13-8)
.
6. Record the reading and return the electrolyte to the cell from which it was taken. Replace vent cap.
7. Repeat steps 2 through 6 on all cells.
Hydrometer Calibration
Most hydrometers are calibrated to read correctly at 80 °F (26.7 °C). The readings obtained as described
above must be corrected for temperature. For each 10 °F (5.6 °C) above 80 °F (26.7 °C), add 0.004 to the
reading. For each 10 °F (5.6 °C) below 80 °F (26.7 °C), subtract 0.004 from the reading.
Interpreting the Results of the Hydrometer Test
The approximate state of charge can be determined from the following table:
If the difference between the cells is 0.020 or more, the low cell should be suspected. It may require a catch-
up charge or it may be a weak cell. When the variations between cells reach 0.050 or more, the battery with
the low cell should be replaced.
Figure 13-4 Hydrometer
SPECIFIC GRAVITY
(TEMPERATURE
CORRECTED)
APPROXIMATE
STATE OF CHARGE
1.250-1.280
100%
1.220-1.240
75%
1.190-1.210
50%
1.160-1.180
25%
4 0
2 0
6 0
8 0
13 00
1.250
1.280
VIEW AT
EYE LEVEL
