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TABLE 15-1 (cont.) Troubleshooting Storage Batteries

Condition

Possible Cause

Suggested Remedy

| Sulphate embedded in plates |

| Short circuit between plates in some cells Standing idle |

Apply equalizing charge.

| Replace separators or entire cell. |

Recharge. Check electrolyte.

| Specific gravity cannot be maintained |

Electrolyte loss

| Impurities in the electrolyte |

| Add sulphuric acid or potassium chloride until specific gravity is attained. If unsuccessful, drain off all solution, clean case, and replace with fresh electrolyte. Check cover seals and vent and filling plugs. |

| Drain electrolyte, clean case, and replace with fresh electrolyte. |

| Loss of active material in plates |

| Short circuit between plates; electrolytic attack on the grid; vibration |

| Replace grids and plates. Check electrolyte for impurities and replace if necessary. Relocate or mount cells on shock absorbing materials. |

Buckled plates

Improper support

| Uneven chemical action on opposite sides of plates caused by clogged plates and separators |

| Check supports and replace both plates and supports if necessary. |

| Replace plates and separators; replace entire cell. |

Excessive cell heating

| Low electrolyte from overcharging or overdrawing Short circuit in cells |

| Replace electrolyte or water. Check charging and discharging rates. |

| Check separators; replace if necessary. Check for impurities in electrolyte; replace if necessary. |

| Corroded terminals and connecting straps |

| Chemical action from excessive gas carrying acid fumes; loose connections |

| Check electrolyte and rates of charging and discharging. Check vent and filling plugs. Clean terminals and connecting straps and apply anticorrosion jelly compound. Tighten connections. |

Batteries not charging

| Rectifier not operating; fuse blown Defective rectifier |

Loose connections

| Check fuses; replace if necessary. Check connections. |

| Check rectifier units; replace if necessary. Check connections. |

| Check and tighten or repair connections. |

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