SET-UP
Sealed VRLA Battery Routine
Charging
Model(s): GTI rental
This vehicle is equipped with a dry type battery that
is already activated and requires no maintenance.
Place the battery on a leveled surface. Battery
must be out of the vehicle.
CAUTION:
Remember that unlike a conventional
battery, the sealed VRLA battery won’t be
topped off during its life. Never pry off sealing
caps: it is dangerous and damaging.
The single most important thing to maintaining a
VRLA battery is to not let it sit discharged: keep
it fully charged. A sealed VRLA battery should be
kept to near fully charged for peak performance.
In fact, it can need charging more often than a car
battery because it’s probably not used routinely
and, therefore, not “automatically” charged.
Use the following guidelines for boost charge.
Always verify battery condition before charging,
and 30 minutes after charging.
A fully charged battery should read 12.8V or
higher after battery has been off the charger 1 -
2 hours.
CAUTION:
Overcharging can harm the battery
beyond recovery.
It is not recommended to overcharge sealed VRLA
batteries. Because of their characteristics, too
much of a boost charge will decrease the volume
of electrolyte. The longer the overcharge time, the
greater the drop in electrolyte – and starting power.
Stage of charge
Voltage
Action
Charging time*
100%
12.8 – 13.0
None
Check at 3 months
from date of
manufacture
None required
75% – 100%
12.5 – 12.8
May need slight
charge, if no charge
given, check in
3 months
3 – 6 hours
50% – 75%
12 – 12.5
Need charge
5 – 11 hours
25% – 50%
11.5 – 12
Need charge
At least 13 hours
verify state of
charge
0% – 25%
11.5 or less
(see instructions
below)
Need charge
20 hours
* Using a constant current charger at standard amps specified on the battery. Charging times
can vary depending on type of charger. Follow the charger's instructions.
CAUTION:
Water cannot be added to the
sealed VRLA battery to make up the difference.
Overcharging can warp plates, making future
charging difficult or impossible. Watch
charging times carefully, or ideally, use a Yuasa
Automatic Charger. Always stop charging if the
battery becomes really warm to the touch. Let
it cool down 6 - 12 hours and resume charging.
WARNING
Always wear protective goggles and charge in
a ventilated area. If battery gets really warm
to the touch, discontinue charging and allow
battery to cool down. No sparks, flames or
smoking when charging.
Predelivery
2008-1
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