TROUBLESHOOTING AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Test Procedures
2001 Pioneer 1200 Gasoline Vehicle Maintenance and Service Manual Page 11-23
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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 11-22, Page 11-22).
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.
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.
Interpreting the Results of the Hydrometer Test
The approximate state of charge can be determined by referring to 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
should be replaced.
Voltage Test
1. Place the red (+) probe of a multimeter set at Volts DC, 20 volt range, on the positive (+) post and place
the black (–) probe on the negative (–) post of the battery and take a voltage reading. If it shows less
than 12.4 volts, or if the lowest specific gravity reading from the Hydrometer Test is less than 1.225,
recharge the battery. If battery voltage is greater than 12.4 volts and specific gravity is greater than
1.225, the problem is not with the battery. If the battery does not reach 12.4 volts, or if the specific grav-
ity of a cell is still less than 1.225 after charging, replace the battery. See following NOTE.
NOTE: A fully charged battery that is in good condition should have a specific gravity of at least 1.225 in all
cells, and the difference in the specific gravity of any two cells should be less than 50 points. Open
circuit voltage should be at least 12.4 volts.
Load Test
1. Using a 160 ampere load tester, connect the load tester to the battery posts.
2. Turn the switch on the load tester to the ON position.
SPECIFIC GRAVITY AT 80 °F (27 °C)
STATE OF CHARGE
1.250 - 1.280
100%
1.220 - 1.240
75%
1.190 - 1.210
50%
1.160 - 1.180
25%
