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Home >> Chevrolet >> 2004 >> Optra Base, Automatic >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Electrical >> Charging Systems >> Engine Electrical System >> Description and Operation >> Battery Description and Operation >> Built-In Hydrometer
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Built-In Hydrometer

The sealed battery has a built-in, temperature-compensated hydrometer in the top of the battery. This hydrometer is to be used with the following diagnostic procedure:

  1. When observing the hydrometer, make sure that the battery has a clean top.
  2. Under normal operation, 3 indications can be observed:
    • Green dot visible-Any green appearance is interpreted as a green dot, meaning the battery is ready for testing.
    • Dark green dot is not visible-If there is a cranking complaint, the battery should be tested. The charging and electrical systems should also be inspected at this time.
    • Clear or bright yellow-This means the fluid level is below the bottom of the hydrometer. This may have been caused by excessive or prolonged charging, a broken case, excessive tipping, or normal battery wear. Finding a battery in this condition may indicate high charging by a faulty charging system. Therefore, the charging and the electrical systems may need to be inspected if a cranking complaint exists. If the cranking complaint is caused by the battery, replace the battery.