Electrical System
352
Battery Capacity Ratings
The reserve capacity rating at 80° F (27° C) is the number of minutes a new, fully charged battery can
be discharged at 25 amperes and maintain a minimum of 1.75 volts per cell (10.5 volts for one 12 volt
battery). This rating is used to determine how long a vehicle might run after an alternator or charging
system failure.
The cold cranking rating is the minimum discharge current a battery will deliver in amperes for 30
seconds at 0° F (–18° C) while maintaining a minimum of 1.2 volts per cell (7.2 volts for one 12 volt
battery). This rating can be used as a basis for determining starting performance.
Common Causes of Battery Failure
With proper care, the battery will provide many years of satisfactory service. If a battery tests “OK” but
proves defective in service, the following are likely causes of the malfunction:
1. Vehicle accessories inadvertently left on.
2. Defects in the charging system, such as high wiring resistance, a faulty alternator, slipping drive
belts, faulty regulator, or a defective battery equalizer.
3. Overloads caused by a defective starter or shorted circuits.
4. Shorted or pinched wires, loose or poor battery cable-to-post connections, previous improper
charging of a run-down battery, or loose hold-downs.
5. Hardened “sulfated” battery plates due to a low state of battery charge over a long period of time.
6. Dirt and electrolyte on top of the battery causing a constant drain.
7. Vehicle electrical load greater than alternator output. A possible cause is the addition of after-
market equipment, such as extra radio equipment or lighting systems.
8. Dirty or loose cable connections at battery terminals or ground.
Recycle Used Batteries
Always dispose of batteries in a responsible manner. Follow your local
authorized standards for disposal. Call your local recycling center to find out
more about recycling batteries.
For More Information
For more extensive information about batteries, see the very useful Battery Service Manual, available
from Battery Council International (BCI) at
www.batterycouncil.org
.
LEAD
RETURN
RECYCLE
Summary of Contents for LOW FLOOR
Page 18: ...Specifications 18...
Page 58: ...Preventive Maintenance 58...
Page 110: ...Engine 110...
Page 138: ...Transmission Driveline Rear Axle 138...
Page 182: ...Suspension 182...
Page 260: ...Air System 260...
Page 420: ...Electrical System 420 Deutsch DT Series Connectors...
Page 421: ...Electrical System 421...
Page 422: ...Electrical System 422 Deutsch HD 10 Series Connectors...
Page 423: ...Electrical System 423...
Page 424: ...Electrical System 424 Deutsch HD 30 Series Connectors...
Page 425: ...Electrical System 425...
Page 442: ...Heating Air Conditioning 442...
Page 492: ...Body and Interior 492 Figure 11 33 USSC Seat Assembly...
Page 493: ...Body and Interior 493 Figure 11 34 USSC Seat Suspension Assembly...
Page 495: ...Body and Interior 495 Figure 11 37 Seat Air Connections...