Checking Electrolyte Level
WARNING:
Do not allow battery fluid to come in contact with skin, eyes, fabrics, or painted surfaces. After touching a battery, do not touch or rub your eyes until you have thoroughly washed your hands. If acid contacts eyes, skin or clothing, immediately flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
- Remove the cell plug using a suitable tool.
- Add distilled water up to the MAX level.
Sulfation
A battery will be completely discharged if it is left unattended for a long time and the specific gravity will become less than 1.100. This may result in sulfation on the cell plates.
To determine if a battery has been sulfated, note its voltage and current when charging it. Less current and higher voltage are observed in the initial stage of charging sulfated batteries, as shown in the graphic.
A sulfated battery may sometimes be brought back into service by means of a long, slow charge, 12 hours or more, followed by a battery capacity test.