Checking the battery (Mitsubishi Lancer 3)

Contents: Checking the density of the…⤓ Checking the battery under load ⤓ Test values ⤓

There are two ways to test a battery. Depending on the testing method, different testing devices are required.

Checking the density of the electrolyte

Together with voltage measurement, the density of the electrolyte allows you to make accurate conclusions about the state of charge of the battery. A hydrometer is used for testing. The higher the specific gravity (density) of the electrolyte, the higher the float rises. The density of the electrolyte can be read off the scale as specific gravity (g/ml) or in Baume degrees (+°Be). Batteries should have the following characteristics (at an electrolyte temperature of about 20°C):

Check each battery can in sequence, all cans should have the same electrolyte density (permissible difference 0.04 g/ml). Otherwise, you can suspect a battery defect.

Checking the battery under load

Connect the voltmeter to the battery terminals.

Note: If the battery voltage (without consumers connected) is less than 12.2 V, the battery is discharged and must be charged.

Start the engine and measure the voltage.

During engine starting, the voltage should not drop below 8 V (at an electrolyte temperature of +20°C).

If the voltage drops immediately to zero and different electrolyte densities are measured in different jars, it can be concluded that the battery is faulty.

The total battery voltage can also be measured using a load fork. Follow the manufacturer's operating instructions.