3025536 - 5530B18 electrolyte - check density and top up if necessary

Follow these precautions.

A low electrolyte level often indicates an operating fault in the alternator, and in particular the electronic voltage regulator.

On batteries with an opticam hydrometer, electrolyte level and battery charge status can be monitored qualitatively by examining the indicator colour: a light, bright colour indicates low electrolyte level: top up with distilled water;a dark colour without a green area in the centre indicates that the electrolyte level is correct but charge is low: recharge the battery; a dark colour with a green area in the middle indicates that both electrolyte level and charge status are correct: no action is necessary. For further details, see DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION - 5580.

However, this device does not give absolute guarantees concerning the correct measurement of the state of charge; a more accurate check on the battery charge should be carried out during servicing.

Proceed as follows.Check the battery voltage without load using the test device recommended by the Service outlets (e.g. 'MICRO 360'). Depending on the voltage values measured, which define the state of charge of the battery, proceed as follows:If the voltage without load is less than 12.10 V, replace the battery (see op.). 5530B10).If the voltage without load is over 12.10 V but less than 12.50 V, recharge the battery (see op. 5530B14).If the voltage without load is over 12.50 V, the battery is efficient.If necessary, top up the electrolyte as follows.Carefully remove the cap strip.Top up with distilled and deionized water, taking care not to allow electrolyte to splash out.

The electrolyte is acid and can cauase damage to eyes, hands and clothing.