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During shipment of the battery, low temperatures and/or normal shock and vibration often results in a drop in the electrolyte level. If
the level is below the top of the separators, recheck it after 3 hours of charging. If the level remains below the top of the separators,
add water or electrolyte to the proper level at the end of charging.
Following the first month of service, the battery should reach its normal operating specific gravity of 1.295 +/- 0.005 at 77° F.
IF BATTERIES ARE NOT IN USE, KEEP THEM CHARGED. CHECK THE SPECIFIC GRAVITIES MONTHLY AND GIVE A FRESHENING
CHARGE (3 OR 4 HOURS AT THE FINISH RATE) IF THE GRAVITIES HAVE FALLEN 0.030 OR MORE; OTHERWISE GIVE A
FRESHENING CHARGE EVERY THREE MONTHS.
4. OPERATION
Batteries are rated in ampere-hours (Ahr) and are selected to perform a specific workload within an established period of time. Increasing
the workload or time period could result in over discharging, thus shortening battery life. Limit discharging of the battery (to 80% or less)
so that specific gravities do not go below 1.180. If truck operation results in only partial discharges (40% or less) and specific gravities are
1.250 or more at the end of the shift, recharging may be deferred and the battery used for another shift, providing the workload is not
expected to increase. Hydrometer readings and experience will determine the frequency of charge intervals under these circumstances.
A battery should always be recharged immediately following a complete discharge. Never allow it to remain in a discharged
condition; otherwise, permanent damage may result. A battery is designed to be operated as follows:
8 hours discharge
8 hours charge
8 hours cool-down
5. TEMPERATURE
In the operation of motive power lead acid batteries, the electrolyte temperature must not exceed 110°F (43°C). If the battery
is continuously operated at or above this temperature, the service life of the battery will be severely diminished. Under normal
operating conditions, battery electrolyte temperature should be maintained between 60-100°F (15-38°C). Following charging, the
battery should be allowed to cool-down or rest approximately 8 hours prior to another discharge cycle.
If a battery is ever hot to the touch, allow it to cool to room temperature before charging or discharging. If a battery consistently
operates at high temperatures greater than 100° F (38° C), contact your local GNB representative for service.
6. CHARGING
When recharging a fully discharged battery, the starting charge rate will be 3 times higher than the finish charge rate. The charge rate
should taper down to the finish rate by the time the battery is 85% charged and may be even lower when fully charged. High “on
charge” temperatures or frequent need for water additions are indications of overcharging. Short running times and/or low end-of-
charge specific gravities may indicate inadequate recharge. Consult your local GNB representative on specific charging problems.
The ampere-hour rating of the charger applied to the battery should be within 10% of the ampere-hour rating of the battery.
7. MAINTENANCE
KEEP RECORDS…
Showing specific gravities, equalizing, charging, temperature, cleaning and voltages on a monthly basis. These
records are required to maintain your warranty.
TEMPERATURE…
Under normal operating conditions, the electrolyte temperature should be between 60-100°F (15-
38°C). Operating temperatures above 100°F will reduce the battery’s service life. Operating temperatures below 60°F
result in less capacity and special charging is required.
WATER ADDITIONS…
GNB-approved chargers have the capability for equalize charging at specific times and days of the week
(e.g. Sunday 08:00). Water additions can be made the following day prior to use, provided an equalization charge is confirmed to
have been performed.
EQUALIZE…
Once a week.
DEPTH OF DISCHARGE…
Do not discharge the battery below 80% of the rated capacity. Over discharging shortens the battery
life and voids the warranty
CLEANING…
Keep the top of the battery clean and dry. See Item 8.
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE…
WEEKLY
• Check electrolyte levels (see water additions).
• Equalize charge.
MONTHLY
• Record electrolyte specific gravities.
• Visual inspection and confirmation that the battery-mounted monitor is functioning properly.
• Inspect the cables and charging plugs.
• Clean the top of the cells.
SEMI-ANNUAL
• Inspect the charger. Confirm proper output voltage and current. Check for external damage, frayed cables, or worn connectors.
• Clean the exterior of the battery .
