ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (CONT’D) Battery Testing
Battery Charging
Figure 307
A battery charger designed for 12 volt charging systems is recommended. Follow the battery charger manufacturer’s instructions to charge the battery to 12.6 volts (100% charge). Batteries should be charged at room temperature to avoid an undercharge or overcharge condition. Never attempt to charge a frozen battery. 1
The following table can be used to identify the approximate amount of time required to charge a discharged battery. Allow at least 60 minutes after operating the machine or charging the battery to get an accurate reading.
P-30836
The simplest and most common check to determine battery state of charge is to use a digital multimeter or voltmeter (Item 1) [Figure 307]. A battery found below 12.4 volts must be charged to 100% charge per the battery charger’s recommendation. Allow at least 60 minutes after operating the machine or charging the battery to get an accurate reading.
STATE CHARGER MAXIMUM RATE OF CHARGE 30 Amps 20 Amps 10 Amps
12.6 V
100%
READY TO USE
12.4 V
75%
0.9 hr.
1.3 hr.
2.5 hr.
12.2 V
50%
1.9 hr.
2.7 hr.
5.1hr.
12.0 V
25%
2.9 hr.
4.3 hr.
7.8 hr.
11.8 V
0%
4.0 hr.
5.7 hr.
10.7 hr.
NOTE: Use a good quality automatic charger to avoid battery damage from overcharging.
If the reading is less than 12.4 volts after the battery has been charged for several hours, see your Bobcat dealer to have a more thorough battery test performed.
WARNING
The freezing point of battery electrolyte is dependent on the battery state of charge. Keeping the battery voltage above 12.4 volts will help prevent batteries from freezing, even at extremely low temperatures.
BATTERY GAS CAN EXPLODE AND CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH Keep arcs, sparks, flames and lighted tobacco away from batteries. When jumping from booster battery make final connection (negative) at machine frame.
If the battery freezes, the internal grid may be damaged and the case will be distorted or cracked. If this happens, dispose of the battery according to local regulations.
Do not jump start or charge a frozen or damaged battery. Warm battery to 16°C (60°F) before connecting to a charger. Unplug charger before connecting or disconnecting cables to battery. Never lean over battery while boosting, testing or charging. W-2066-0910
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E42 Operation & Maintenance Manual
Dealer Copy -- Not for Resale
BATTERY VOLTAGE
