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9924871 R03 - 2014 Polaris Sportsman® 570 EFI Service Manual
© Copyright 2013 Polaris Sales Inc.
Conventional Battery Specific Gravity Test
A tool such as a Battery Hydrometer (PN 2870836) can
be used to measure electrolyte strength or specific
gravity. As the battery goes through the charge/
discharge cycle, the electrolyte goes from a heavy (more
acidic) state at full charge to a light (more water) state
when discharged. The hydrometer can measure state of
charge and differences between cells in a multi-cell
battery. Readings of 1.270 or greater should be observed
in a fully charged battery. Differences of more than .025
between the lowest and highest cell readings indicate a
need to replace the battery.
STATE OF
CHARGE
CONVENTIONAL
LEAD - ACID
LOW
MAINTE-
NANCE
100%
12.60V
12.70V
Charged
12.40V
12.50V
75% Charged
12.10V
12.20V
50% Charged
11.90V
12.0V
25% Charged
less than 11.80V
Less than
11.90V
0% Charged
–
–
STATE OF
CHARGE*
CONVENTIONAL
LEAD - ACID
LOW
MAINTENANCE
100%
1.265
1.275
Charged
1.210
1.225
75% Charged
1.160
1.175
50% Charged
1.120
1.135
25% Charged
less than 1.100
Less than 1.115
0% Charged
–
–
* Measurement at 80° F
NOTE: Subtract .01 from the specific gravity reading
at 40° F
Battery Load Test
CAUTION
To prevent shock or component damage, remove spark
plug high tension leads and connect securely to engine
ground before proceeding.
NOTE: This test can only be performed on machines
with electric starters. This test cannot be performed
with an engine or starting system that is not working
properly.
A battery may indicate a full charge condition in the OCV
test and the specific gravity test, but still may not have
the storage capacity necessary to properly function in the
electrical system. For this reason, a battery capacity or
load test should be conducted whenever poor battery
performance is encountered. To perform this test, hook a
multitester to the battery in the same manner as was
done in the OCV test. The reading should be 12.6 volts
or greater. Engage the starter and observe the battery
voltage while cranking the engine. Continue the test for
15 seconds. During cranking the observed voltage
should not drop below 9.5 volts. If the beginning voltage
is 12.6 volts or higher and the cranking voltage drops
below 9.5 volts during the test, replace the battery.
Off Season Storage
To prevent battery damage during extended periods of
non-use, the following basic battery maintenance items
must be performed:
• Remove the battery from the machine and wash
the case and battery tray with a mild solution of
baking soda and water. Rinse with lots of fresh
water after cleaning.
NOTE:
Do not get any of the
baking soda into the battery or the acid will be
neutralized.
• Using a wire brush or knife, remove any corrosion
from the cables and terminals.
• Make sure that the electrolyte is at the proper
level. Add distilled water if necessary.
• Charge at a rate no greater than 1/10 of the
battery's amp/hr capacity until the electrolyte's
specific gravity reaches 1.270 or greater.
• Store the battery either in the machine with the
cables disconnected, or store in a cool place.
NOTE: Recharge to full capacity every 30 to 60
days during a non-use period. If the battery is
stored during the winter months, electrolyte
will freeze at higher temperatures as the
battery discharges. The chart below indicates
freezing points by specific gravity.
ELECTRICAL
