COVER 6P6133 - Caterpillar

Battery
Never disconnect any charging unit circuit or battery circuit cable from 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.
The battery circuit is an electrical load on the charging unit. The load is variable because of the condition of the charge in the battery. Damage to the charging unit will result if the connections (either positive or negative) between the battey and charging unit are broken while the charging unit is in operation. This is because the battery load is lost and there is an increase in charging voltage. High voltage will damage, not only the charging unit, but also the regulator and other electrical components.Load test a battery that does not hold a charge when in use. To do this, put a resistance across the main connections (terminals) of the battery. For a 6, 8 or 12V battery, use a test load of three times the ampere/hour rating (the maximum test load on any battery is 500 amperes). Let the test load remove the charge (discharge) of the battery for 15 seconds and with the test load still applied, test the battery voltage. A 6V battery in good condition will show 4.5V; and 8V battery will show 6V; a 12V battery will show 9V. Each cell of a battery in good condition must show 1.6V on either a 6, 8 or 12V battery.Charging System
The condition of charge in the battery at each regular inspection will show if the charging system operates correctly. An adjustment is necessary when the battery is constantly in a low condition of charge or a large amount of water is needed (more than one ounce of water per cell per week or per every 50 service hours).When it is possible, make a test of the charging unit and voltage regulator on the engine, and use wiring and components that are a permanent part of the system. Off-engine (bench) testing will give a test of the charging unit and voltage regulator operation. This testing will give an indication of needed repair. After repairs are made, again make a test to give proof that the units are repaired to their original condition of operation.Before the start of on-engine testing, the charging system and battery must be checked as shown in the Steps that follow:1. Battery must be at least 75% (1.240 Sp. Gr.) fully charged and held tightly in place. The Battery holder must not put too much stress on the battery.2. Cables between the battery, starter and engine ground must be the correct size. Wires and cables must be free of corrosion and have cable support clamps to prevent stress on battery connections (terminals).3. Leads, junctions, switches and panel instruments that have direct relation to the charging circuit must give correct circuit control.4. Inspect the drive components for the charging unit to be sure