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The hydrometer consists of a glass barrel and a rubber syringe bulb used to draw up a sample of the electrolyte to float the enclosed hydrometer. The stem of this hydrometer float is calibrated to read specific gravity.
For accurate and meaningful readings, the fluid in each battery cell should be at the normal level with the electrolyte thoroughly mixed. Do not take hydrometer readings immediately after adding distilled water. (The best time to add water is just prior to charging.)
The hydrometer should be graduated for specific gravities from 1.160 to 1.320 in increments of 0.005. The graduation markings should be at least 1/16 inches apart to provide for easy and accurate reading. The graduated portion of the stem should be about 2 inches long. Clearance between the float and the inside of the barrel should be at least 1/8 inch around all sides.
Hydrometer readings of less than 1.230 at 80 degrees F. indicate the battery may be defective. Recharge the battery and repeat the test. If the battery will not accept the charge (as indicated by the meter on the charger), or if the readings between cells differ by more than 0.050 after being recharged, the battery should be replaced.
Hydrometer readings above 1.295 at 80 degrees F. indicate that the cells were probably improperly filled when new or have been improperly serviced. Poor operation and short battery life will result.
The hydrometer consists of a glass barrel and a rubber syringe bulb used to draw up a sample of the electrolyte to float the enclosed hydrometer. The stem of this hydrometer float is calibrated to read specific gravity.
For accurate and meaningful readings, the fluid in each battery cell should be at the normal level with the electrolyte thoroughly mixed. Do not take hydrometer readings immediately after adding distilled water. (The best time to add water is just prior to charging.)
The hydrometer should be graduated for specific gravities from 1.160 to 1.320 in increments of 0.005. The graduation markings should be at least 1/16 inches apart to provide for easy and accurate reading. The graduated portion of the stem should be about 2 inches long. Clearance between the float and the inside of the barrel should be at least 1/8 inch around all sides.
Hydrometer readings of less than 1.230 at 80 degrees F. indicate the battery may be defective. Recharge the battery and repeat the test. If the battery will not accept the charge (as indicated by the meter on the charger), or if the readings between cells differ by more than 0.050 after being recharged, the battery should be replaced.
Hydrometer readings above 1.295 at 80 degrees F. indicate that the cells were probably improperly filled when new or have been improperly serviced. Poor operation and short battery life will result. | |
