BatteryMINDer
®
Models 36271 & 48021
Rev. D-120913
Page 9
P/N VDC36271/48021-MNL
Testing with a Hot/Cold Calibrated Hydrometer Tester
Read the tester instructions carefully for most accurate readings.
1. When using the tester the first time or after a long period of non-use, fill
the tester with the battery fluid and let it sit for 1/2 hour or longer. This will
soak the balls in order to give you more accurate readings. Failure to do
so will give you false readings indicating a battery that may not be in as
good a condition as you may have thought.
2. After inserting the tester in a cell, gently tap the tester several times
against the inside wall of each cell to dislodge air bubbles that will cause
more balls to float than should. Failure to do so will yield false readings
that indicate a battery that is not fully desulfated or does not qualify for
desulfation.
3. If no balls float in any cell, the cell is shorted. This means your battery is
beyond the point of being properly recharged or reconditioned-desulfated.
Dispose of the battery.
4. If each cell floats three (3) or more balls (or 1250 on gauge-type), your
battery can be desulfated-reconditioned.
5. Always rinse the tester with fresh water after every use. Failure to do so
will cause false readings.
Testing a Sealed, AGM or GEL Lead Acid Battery
These batteries have no filler caps or manifold-type covers. Because you
cannot gain access to the interior of your battery you cannot test it with a
hydrometer.
USE A DIGITAL VOLTMETER ONLY:
1. Recharge the battery with the BatteryMINDer to ensure it is as completely
charged as possible, before you determine its condition. Allow battery
to “rest” (see
Glossary of Terms
) overnight for a minimum of 12 hours
before testing with a digital voltmeter only. Failure to test a “rested”
battery will cause false readings. Be certain to read and understand all
safety related instructions (pages 3 to 6) before proceeding further.
2. Measure battery’s voltage, without any load attached. If the voltage is
less than
37.2 volts /
49.6 volts
(Typically 50% of charge) the battery
may be too heavily sulfated to be fully recoverable. If voltage is
37.2V
/
49.6V
or higher full recovery can be expected, given sufficient time
(average 1-2 weeks for batteries that are heavily sulfated).
