Lift truck batteries

By Nat Wells Manager, Service Education Allis-Chalmers Corp.

likely being at fault. After all, a new battery and alternator have been installed. What else is there? So a new regulator is installed.

Let's look at how this problem should have been handled. Here is a simplified procedure:

(1) Check water in battery and hydrometer reading if possible. Variation in the reading is very important for diagnostic purposes.

(2) Clean battery terminals.

(3) Check condition of alternator drive belt - (loose, glazed, etc.)

(4) Check wiring terminals to alternator, regulator, etc.

(5) Check output of alternator. The discharged battery offers a prime load for the alternator.

(6) Allow battery to completely charge and test with hydrometer and load tester. If it fails, replace battery.

Step 6 needs further explanation. Economic and working conditions can dictate that the battery be replaced, although, "'t'ain't necessarily so" that the battery is faulty. Cost of charging can outweigh the cost of the battery. Several things can cause a rundown battery outside of a faulty system, such as excessive idling with electrical loads. Be sure you check the total system before replacing that battery and going on your way. Otherwise, the new battery can be "old" very soon.

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MEMBERS OF THE REDWOOD INSPECTION SERVICE MILL

Annapolis Milling Co., Inc.

Arcata Redwood Company

Cal-Pacific Manufacturing Co.