Charging Batteries Using A Constant Charge Current
WARNING:
Explosive oxyhydrogen accumulates when the battery charges. Smoking, welding, grinding or other activities involving sparks or naked flames are prohibited in the vicinity of a charging battery. Batteries must never be charged in the car. Batteries must be charged in a well ventilated place. Ensure that ventilation is good.
WARNING:
Watch out for acid splash The battery contains sulphuric acid
. This can cause serious corrosive damage
. If the electrolyte comes into contact with your eyes, skin or clothes - flush using large quantities of water. Contact a doctor immediately if acid splashes into eyes.
CAUTION:
Boost charging (using a high current) will damage the battery. Boost charging is prohibited. Never charge using a voltage in excess of 14.5 volts.
1. Checking the electrolyte level before charging
The electrolyte level must be checked before the battery is charged. See BATTERY ACID LEVEL, CHECKING . Never charge a battery when the electrolyte level is low.
2. Charging the battery
- Remove the battery from the car. Always disconnect the negative terminal first to prevent sparking
- Connect the battery charger to the battery terminals. Charge the battery for approximately 10 hours at the recommended constant current. For the recommended constant charge current, see the table in, see BATTERY MARKING .
- Reinstall the battery after charging. Connect the positive terminal first.
WARNING:
The battery can develop oxyhydrogen, which is highly explosive. Ensure that any evacuation hose (the hose which evacuates oxyhydrogen from the cargo compartment) is correctly connected to the battery and that the hose leads downwards to the dedicated outlet in the bodywork
3. Checking the electrolyte level after charging
After charging, the electrolyte level must be checked again and topped up if necessary. See BATTERY ACID LEVEL, CHECKING .