BOLT 6C3210 - Caterpillar

Checking Before Start-Up
Check the battery charger for proper operation. If the batteries are properly charged, the needle of the ammeter will register near "0" (zero).The battery charger must not produce excessive current during start-up. Alternatively, the charger must be automatically disconnected for start-up. If the engine has an alternator, the charger must be automatically disconnected during start-up and during engine operation.Charging the Battery
Never disconnect any charging unit circuit or battery circuit cable from the battery when the charging unit is operated. A spark can cause an explosion from the flammable vapor mixture of hydrogen and oxygen that is released from the electrolyte through the battery outlets. Injury to personnel can be the result.
Perform the following procedure to charge the battery:
Ensure that the charger is turned OFF.
Adjust the voltage of the charger in order to match the voltage of the battery.
Connect the POSITIVE "+" lead of the charger to the POSITIVE "+" battery terminal. Connect the NEGATIVE "-" lead of the charger to the NEGATIVE "-" battery terminal.
Turn ON the battery charger.Overcharging of Batteries
Overcharging reduces the service life of batteries. Use a battery charger that will not overcharge the battery. DO NOT charge the battery if the meter of the battery charger is in the RED zone.Overcharging is indicated by the following symptoms:
The battery is warm to the touch.
A strong odor of acid is present.
The battery emits smoke or a dense vapor (gas).Perform one of the following procedures if the battery shows symptoms of overcharging:
Reduce the rate of charging by a significant amount. Complete the charging at the reduced rate.
Turn OFF the charger.Table 1 describes the effects of overcharging on different types of batteries.
Table 1
Effects of Overcharging Batteries    
Type of Battery     Effect    
Cat General Service Batteries
Cat Premium High Output Batteries     All of the battery cells have a low level of electrolyte.    
When the plates of the battery are inspected through the filler holes, the plates may appear to be warped. This is caused by an excessive temperature.
The battery may not pass a load test.
Cat Maintenance Free Batteries     The battery may not accept a charging current.    
The battery may not pass a load test. Checking After Stopping
Ensure that the battery charger is connected properly. Observe the meter of the charger. Record the amperage.