Inspection

There are many tools that may help in properly caring for and maintaining batteries. Below is a list of basic items that are recommends for this task: Recommended Equipment:

    * Insulated tools sized to match nuts, bolts and cables in use
    * Distilled water for flooded batteries (if not available good clean tap water is better than nothing)
    * Voltmeter
    * Hydrometer for flooded batteries
    * Post cleaner and wire brush
    * Baking Soda
    * Petroleum Jelly
    * Goggles, Gloves (wear polyester clothing)
    * Fire extinguisher

CAUTION: Always wear protective clothing, gloves, and goggles when handling batteries, electrolyte, and charging your battery.

Batteries should be carefully inspected on a regular basis in order to detect and correct potential problems before they can do harm. It is a great idea to start this routine when the batteries are first received.

Examine the outside appearance of the battery

    * Look for cracks in the container
    * Check the battery, posts and connections to make sure they are clean, free of dirt, fluids and corrosion
    * Any fluids on or around the battery may be an indication that electrolyte is spilling, leaching or leaking out. Pay close attention to this if it is a flooded battery you are checking as a low electrolyte situation in the battery may cause excessive gassing and ultimately dispense fluid on or around the battery
    * All battery cables and their connections should be tight, intact, and NOT broken or frayed
    * Replace any damaged batteries
    * Replace any damaged cables
    * Re-torque all connector bolts. See manufacturer’s recommendations for torque values.

Proper Initial and annual Maintenance Torque Values for Connection Hardware are:

Flooded:

Automotive SAE: 50 to 80 in.-lbs. (5.6~10NM) Automotive Side terminals: 70 to 90 in.-lbs. (7.9~10.2NM) Wing nut terminals: 90 to 105 in.-lbs. (10.2~12NM) T stud type terminals: 120 to 180 in.lbs. (13~20NM) L, LT, UT terminals: 95 to 120 in.-lbs. (11~14NM)

VRLA:

X terminals (U1) terminals: 40 in.-lbs. (4.5 NM) Light Duty L terminals: 40 to 50 in.-lbs. (4.5~5.6NM) Standard Duty L terminals: 60 to 80 in.-lbs. (6.5~10NM) Heavy Duty L terminals: 90 to 110 in.-lbs. (10.2~12.5NM) Button type terminals: Can vary greatly. 25 to 110 in.-lbs.(2.8~12.4NM) WARNING: Do not over tighten terminals. Doing so can result in post breakage, post meltdown, and fire.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.