TM 10-4320-307-24
2-13.3 BATTERY SERVICING AND CABLE CONNECTION.
Do not smoke or use open flame or spark-producing equipment in the vicinity of battery.
CAUSTIC CHEMICALS IN BATTERIES
Serious injury could occur from- the careless handling of storage batteries or battery electrolyte
(acid). If acid is splashed on the skin, wash the affected area immediately with plenty of clean
water. If acid is splashed in the eyes, wash immediately with plenty of clean water and get
medical attention.
a.
Add electrolyte to batteries as follows:
NOTE
Maintenance-free batteries are sealed and do not require the addition of electrolyte.
If conventional batteries are used, proceed with the following Instructions.
(1)
Remove electrolyte from storage location.
(2)
Using a hydrometel, check electrolyte specific gravity. Reading must be 1.265 -1.280.
(3)
Open battery box clips.
(4)
Remove battery box cover.
(5)
Remove cell caps on covers from each cell.
NOTE
Use an electrolyte with a specific gravity of 1 280.
Do NOT use a tropical electrolyte, which will re-
duce battery reserve capacity.
(6)
Fill each battery cell with electrolyte to 3/8-inch (9.5 mm)
above cell plates.
(7)
Use hydrometer (1) to measure the specific gravity of
each cell.
NOTE
If specific gravity of any or all of the cells is below
1.200, the battery must be charged using a battery
charger (2).
(8)
Refer to chart to determine the battery state-of-charge
based on the specific gravity readings.
Battery State
Specific Gravity
of Charge
@ 27°C [80°F]
100%
1.260-1.280
75%
1.230-1.250
50%
1.200-1.220
25%
1.170-1.190
Discharged
1.110-1.130
2-13
