Suzuki RA410, Manual

Page: 472 / 761

2) Keep the battery cable connections clean.
The cable connections, particularly at the positive (+) terminal
post, tend to become corroded. The product of corrosion, or
rust, on the mating faces of conductors resists the flow of cur-
rent.
Clean the terminals and fittings periodically to ensure good met-
al-to-metal contact, and grease the connections after each
cleaning to protect them against rusting.
3) Be always in the know as to the state of charge of the battery.
The simplest way to tell the state of charge is to carry out a
hydrometer test. The hydrometer is an instrument for measur-
ing the specific gravity (S.G.) of the battery electrolyte. The S.G.
of the electrolyte is indicative of the state of charge.
DIAGNOSIS
VISUAL INSPECTION
Check for obvious damage, such as cracked or broken case or
cover, that could permit loss of electrolyte. If obvious damage is
noted, replace battery. Determine cause of damage and correct as
needed.
HYDROMETER TEST
The direct method of checking the battery for state of charge is to
carry out a high rate discharge test, which involves a special pre-
cise voltmeter and an expensive instrument used in the service
shops, but not recommendable to the user of the vehicle.
At 20
C of battery temperature (electrolyte temperature):
— The battery is in FULLY CHARGED STATE it the electrolyte
S.G. is 1.280.
— The battery is in HALF CHARGED STATE if the S.G. is 1.220.
— The battery is in NEARLY DISCHARGED STATE if the S.G. is
1.150 and is in danger of freezing.
CHARGING SYSTEM 6H-3