Caravan FWD V6-201 3.3L VIN R MFI (1997)
2. Connect a Volt/Ammeter/Load tester to the battery posts. Rotate the load control knob of the Carbon pile rheostat to apply a 300 amp load. Apply
this load for 15 seconds to remove the surface charge from the battery, and return the control knob to off.
3. Allow the battery to stabilize for 2 minutes, and then verify open circuit voltage.
Load 50% Cold Crank Rating
4. Rotate the load control knob on the tester to maintain 50 % of the battery cold crank rating for 15 seconds. Record the loaded voltage reading and
return the load control to off. Refer to Battery Specifications.
Load Test Temperature
5. Voltage drop will vary according to battery temperature at the time of the load test. Battery temperature can be estimated by the temperature of
exposure over the preceding several hours. If the battery has been charged or boosted a few minutes prior to the test, the battery would be slightly
warmer. Refer to Load Test Voltage Chart for proper loaded voltage reading:
6. If battery passes load test, it is in good condition and further tests are not necessary. If it fails load test, it should be replaced.
Battery Open Circuit Voltage Test
An open circuit voltage no load test shows the state of charge of a battery and whether it is ready for a load test at 50 percent of the battery's cold crank
rating. Refer to Battery Load Test. If a battery has open circuit voltage reading of 12.4 Volts or greater, and will not pass the load test, replace the
battery because it is defective. To test open circuit voltage, perform the following operation.
1. Remove both battery cables, negative cable first. Battery top, cables and posts should be clean. If green dot is not visible in indicator, charge the
battery. Refer to Battery Charging Procedures.
