Car Battery Test Guide

Simple Battery Test:

1. Connect the voltmeter directly across the "Battery Terminals". (NOT to the Cable Clamps)
2. While watching the meter, try to start the Car.
3. The Battery Voltage should never fall below about 10 Volts.
   If it does:
   
   a) The battery is either "Low in Charge".
   b) The Battery is "Low in Water".
   (The water level in the battery should be about 1/4 of an inch, Above the Plates.) "DO NOT" Fill it up FULL.
   
   c) The battery has a "High Internal Resistance".
   (Probably Time for New Battery)

**NOW Repeat This Test BUT:

1. Connect the voltmeter directly across the "Battery Clamps on the Battery Cables".
2. This Reading should be Within 0.1 Volt Maximum of the reading taken in point 3 above.
   ***If NOT, Clean Battery Terminals and Clamps.
   
   a) If Necessary, Repeat Test to Verify it is now OK.

**NOW Repeat This Test Again, BUT:

1. Connect the Voltmeter Directly Across the Positive Terminal of the Starter and an 'earth' point.
2. If the voltmeter reading is More than 0.5 Volt Lower than the Previous Test You Probably have a Cable or Connector Problem!
   
   a) Check the Connections between the Cable and the Cable Connectors. ON BOTH ENDS.