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A battery requires a minimal amount of care in order to extend its life appreciably.
CHLORIDE EXIDE BOTSWANA
The battery, or more accurately the storage battery, is an electrochemical device. It stores chemical energy, which is released as electrical energy when connected to an external load such as the vehicle's starter motor or lighting system. To keep the battery in good working order, it has to be kept fully charged by the vehicle's alternator or generator.
The battery must be kept clean and dry at all times. Sulphuric acid is both conductive and corrosive. If acid is evident it can slowly discharge the battery and damage paintwork and metal parts. The affected area and outside of the battery should be washed with a solution of bicarbonate of soda and warm water, taking care that none of the solution enters the battery.
Battery terminals tend to corrode because of electrolysis and acid fumes. The metallic contact area of the terminals and battery posts should be cleaned to ensure good contact. A thin layer of petroleum jelly should then be applied around the visible metal area. Cables and connections should be checked to ensure they are tight, clean and not damaged.
Electrolyte levels should be checked regularly and corrected to the indicated level, or 10 to 15 mm above the plates. Only approved distilled or deionised water must be added. Topping up should be carried out on a fully charged battery to avoid acid spillage.
The condition and tension of the alternator or fan belt should be checked routinely. The charge rate on most vehicles is between 13.8 and 14.2 volts. Discharged batteries are often incorrectly replaced because of faulty charging systems, so the system should be tested whenever a battery is replaced or charged.
A battery should never be stored in a discharged condition because this leads to permanent sulphation. Caravan and boating batteries should be recharged before storage and given a fresh charge approximately every 12 weeks. Chargers must be connected correctly and used according to the manufacturer's instructions in a well ventilated area.
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