2240 SRM 1
Battery Maintenance
Specific
Gravity
Reading
Electrolyte
Temp.
Correction
Points
Correct
Value
1.210
31 C (88
F)
+0.003
1.213
1.210
27 C (81
F)
+0.001
1.211
1.210
25 C (77
F)
0.000
1.210
1.210
18 C (64
F)
0.004
1.206
+0.001 or
0.001 for each 2 degrees C from the
25-degree base value.
Figure 15. Specific Gravity Check
Figure 16. Battery Thermometer
CHARGING BATTERY
NOTE:
There can be one of two types of batteries.
One type has removable cell caps. The other type
has sealed cells. The sealed batteries require a dif-
ferent charger. The electrolyte level or specific grav-
ity cannot be checked, and water cannot be added to
the electrolyte of these sealed batteries.
WARNING
The acid in the electrolyte can cause injury.
If electrolyte is spilled, use water to flush the
area. Make the acid neutral with a solution of
sodium bicarbonate.
Batteries generate explosive fumes when they
are being charged. Keep fire, sparks, and burn-
ing material away from the battery charger
area. Prevent sparks from the battery connec-
tors.
Charge batteries only in the special area for
charging batteries.
When charging the bat-
teries, keep the vent caps clean. The battery
charger area must have ventilation so that
explosive fumes are removed. Open the hood
over the battery or remove the cover if the
battery has a cover.
Disconnect the battery when doing cleaning
and maintenance.
If the lift truck has been operated with a low
battery, check the contactors for welded con-
tacts before a charged battery is connected.
The circuit will not reset and lift truck oper-
ation cannot be controlled if the contacts are
welded. To check the contacts, see the Contac-
tor inspection procedure for your lift truck.
CAUTION
Use only battery chargers approved by the bat-
tery manufacturer or dealer.
CAUTION
NEVER connect the battery charger plug to
the plug of the lift truck. You can damage the
traction control circuit. Make sure the charger
voltage is the correct voltage for the battery.
Correct use of the hydrometer (see Figure 14) and
proper operation of the battery charger is impor-
tant. Also see Figure 15. Follow the instructions of
the charger manufacturer. NEVER let the battery
discharge below the minimum value given by the
battery manufacturer. A fully charged battery will
have a specific gravity of 1.265 to 1.310 at 25 C
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