7a. Battery Diagnostic Procedures

(USING Midtronics PowerSensor Plus Tester)

1. Connect the Midtronics PowerSensor Plus tester. If low voltage is found (less than 10.2V) charge the battery for two (2) hours and recheck. If the voltage is greater than 10.2V, test battery condition without precharging. If low voltage is still found after a two (2) hour charge, replace the battery according to the information in the warranty section of this bulletin.

2. If the tester indicates that the battery is not at fault, refer to the appropriate workshop manual or BETM (Body Electrical Troubleshooting Manual) for troubleshooting and repair information.

The following are additional Midtronics PowerSensor Plus tester features:

Position "A" will test for an open circuit (bad cell or broken internal circuit). This is indicated by a "Red" LED light. If an open circuit is indicated, replace the battery using the criteria described in the warranty section of this bulletin.

Position "B" a "green" LED indicates that the battery has at least 10.2V and can therefore be tested without precharging. This position requires that the OCA rating (for the specific battery type under test) be set on the Midtronics PowerSensor Plus Tester dial. Refer to the chart (Wet Battery Application Guide) to determine CCA. The Midtronics PowerSensor Plus tester then determines actual CCA by measuring the condition of the battery voltage and plate condition.

Position "C" measures the alternator output when the engine is running and also indicates 'Open Circuit Voltage".

Position "D" indicates actual CCA condition of the battery. By comparing the indicated reading to the battery's rated CCA, the battery condition is determined (ex. Indicated CCA of 400 for a battery with a 600 rating indicates that the battery is 2/3 down on capacity). This decline will occur through normal aging and does not necessarily indicate that the battery requires replacement. It provides a general indication of the battery health for your customer.

IMPORTANT
Diagnostic procedures for lead-acid battery performance are different than those used for maintenance4ree batteries (lithium hybrid type). Incorrect diagnosis will result in false readings and unnecessary battery replacement if the wrong procedure is followed.

Use "Flow Chart"





Diagnostic procedures used for testing lead-acid batteries provide false readings leading to unnecessary replacement if used on maintenance4ree batteries. The information below is provided for diagnosing maintenance-free batteries.