Automotive battery maintenance

Tighten set screws
Tighten set screws

If the battery is not mounted firmly, a vibration that destroys the plaques, cover and box is produced. Tighten up the mounting support correctly and repeat the operation again if necessary.

Polishing and oiling
Polishing and oiling

The endings get sulphated when in contact with sulphuric acid, thus making the flow of current difficult. Clean the endings with a brush and water. Protect them with petroleum jelly.

Charge 14.4V
Charge 14.4V

If the charge tension is over 14.4 V the battery is overcharged, the distilled water is consumed and the plaques are deteriorated. Calibrate the regulator between 13.6 V and 14.4 V or replace it.

Adjust the strap
Adjust the strap

The lack of charge due to a loose belt, a regulator that charges a little (less than 13.6 V) or the limited use of the vehicle provoke the hardening and sulphating of the plaques.

Correct level of distilled water
Correct level of distilled water

If you overfill the elements, the electrolyte drops when receiving a battery charge. This produces sulphate in the terminals and destroys the bodywork. Add distilled waters assuring that you do not surpass the 5 to 7 mm level over the plaques.

Open the terminal, place and adjust
Open the terminal, place and adjust

Do not hit the terminal when mounting it, otherwise, the cover and/ or the plaques will break down. Loosen the screw, open the terminal and mount it. Then, tighten it again.

Connect a long cable
Connect a long cable

When the wire is tight to the terminal, the cover breaks down due to the engine vibration. Install a longer wire that will allow more flexibility.

Do not use high current starters
Do not use high current starters

The habitual use of the high current ignition, as supplement for the battery that works with a low charge due to its low regulator, destroys the battery. Check and tighten the charging system.

Add only distilled water
Add only distilled water

A satisfying electrolyte that might replace the sulphuric acid and water combination has not been found, yet. Therefore, substitutes must not be used.

Connect the cable directly
Connect the cable directly

Generally, interrupters are not designed to withstand a high current from the beginning. As a consequence, they produce tension drops and low ignitions. Avoid its mounting.