TM 5-4320-300-14
Table 4-1 Organizational Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services - Continued
W -Weekly
Q- Quarterly
M -Monthly
S- Semiannually
Interval
Item
Item
To Be
No. W M Q S
Inspected
Procedures
13
Battery and
Cables
WARNING
Severe burns or blindness may result if battery
electrolyte comes in contact with skin or eyes.
Rinse skin and eyes thoroughly with cold
water if in contact with electrolyte.
CAUTION
Disconnect battery cable from negative (-) bat-
tery post before disconnecting any other leads
from engine components. This precaution will
prevent short circuits which could damage the
alternator, voltage regulator, or other parts.
Inspect battery terminals, cables, and posts for corrosion. If
corroded, clean with a solution of baking soda (Federal
Specification EE-B-86) and water. Take care not to get
baking soda solution in the battery cells.
Inspect battery for cracks, loose posts, leakage, and other
damage.
Using a hydrometer, check the specific gravity of the elec-
trolyte. The specific gravity of a fully charged battery must
be 1.250 minimum at 80° F (26.60C). Measure the tempera-
ture of the battery electrolyte with an accurate thermometer.
Compare the electrolyte temperature and the hydrometer
specific gravity reading to the battery condition chart. Add
or subtract (from your specific gravity reading) the decimal
next to the temperature in 0 F that closely approximates
4-25
