Club Car FE 350, Maintenance And Service Supplement

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11
Test Procedures TROUBLESHOOTING AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Hydrometer Test
A hydrometer (CCI P/N 1011478) measures the specific gravity. The greater the specific gravity, the greater the state
of charge of the battery. A fully charged battery should read between 1.250 and 1.280 at 80 °F (27 °C). Never add acid
to the battery to obtain a higher specific gravity
(Figure 11-11, Page 11-18) .
CAUTION
• Do not allow battery acid from battery caps or hydrometer to drip onto the body. Battery acid will
cause permanent damage. Wash off immediately.
Performing the Hydrometer Test
1. Be sure that the battery has sufficient water to cover the plates by approximately 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) and is
fully charged prior to beginning the test. If water must be added, recharge the battery before performing the
hydrometer test
(Figure 11-12, Page 11-18) .
2. Remove the vent cap.
3. Using a battery thermometer (CCI P/N 1011767), record the electrolyte temperature of a center cell.
4. Squeeze the rubber bulb of the hydrometer and insert into the cell. Slowly release the bulb, drawing electrolyte
up into the glass tube of the hydrometer.
5. When the float rises off the bottom, adjust the electrolyte level so that the float rides free of the bottom but does not
strike the bottom of the rubber bulb. Remove the hydrometer from the cell and release the pressure from the bulb.
6. Hold the hydrometer vertically, ensuring that the float is not contacting the sides of the glass tube. Hold the
hydrometer at eye level and read the scale at the level of electrolyte
(Figure 11-11, Page 11-18) .
7. Record the reading.
8. Return the electrolyte to the cell from which it was taken. Replace vent cap.
9. Repeat steps 2 through 8 on all cells.
4 0
2 0
6 0
8 0
13 00
1.250
1.280
View at eye level.
1
3
2
1. Level Indicator 2. Cap 3. Plates
Electrolyte level at least 1/2 inch (13 MM) above plates or to level
indicator.
717
Figure 11-11 Hydrometer Test
22
Figure 11-12 Battery Electrolyte Level
Hydrometer Calibration
Most hydrometers are calibrated to read correctly at 80 °F (27 °C). The readings obtained as described above must be
corrected for temperature. For each 10 °F (5.6 °C) above 80 °F (27 °C), add 0.004 to the reading. For each 10 °F
(5.6 °C) below 80 °F (27 °C), subtract 0.004 from the reading.
Page 11-18 2009 FE 350 Maintenance and Service Supplement