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THE BATTERY
In order to troubleshoot the battery, the cornerstone of the vehicle’s electrical system, all
vehicle systems must be off. Turn voltmeter to DC VOLTS. With the alarm disarmed,
connect the test leads from the digital multimeter to the battery posts, red to positive and
black to negative (alligator clips ideal). A properly functioning battery will read a
MINIMUM of 12.25 volts. Anything below this will require charging (see procedure
below).
In situations that the vehicle’s starter is the suspected issue, and kick-start ability has been
verified, a load test may be conducted on the battery. In order to correctly perform this
procedure, the multimeter must be connected in the manner described above. Next, with the
alarm still disarmed, turn the ignition key to the ON/RUN position. THE VEHICLE KILL
SWITCH SHOULD REMAIN IN THE OFF/NO RUN POSITION. While pressing the
vehicle’s electric start button, observe the change in battery voltage. Under load, reading
should be at or above 10.25. Anything below this indicates that the battery will require
charging (see procedure below).
BATTERY CHARGE PROCEDURE: With all vehicle systems disengaged, completely
remove the battery. Verifying correct polarity, connect slow rate/trickle charger. Battery
should be charged at a rate of 1.5-2 amps, and will typically take 4-8 hours for a complete
recharge, depending on its state.
Upon completion of charge, reinstall battery, verifying correct polarity. In order to verify
properly functioning charging system, start vehicle using kick-start lever. Allow vehicle to
reach operating temperature, and again connect the digital multimeter in the manner
described above. A PROPERLY FUNCTIONING CHARGING SYSTEM WILL
YIELD A CONSTANT READING OF 12.8-13.2 VOLTS AT THE BATTERY AT
IDLE. Reading may fluctuate as throttle is increased, not to exceed 14.5 volts (anything
above indicates an overcharge condition and a faulty output from the voltage regulator).
