Grand Vitara 4WD V6-2.5L (2003)
Battery: Description and Operation
The battery has three major functions in the electrical system.
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It is a source of electrical energy for cranking the engine.
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It acts as a voltage stabilizer for the electrical system.
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It can, for a limited time, provide energy when the electrical load exceeds the output of the generator.
Carrier and Hold-Down
The battery carrier should be in good condition so that it will support the battery securely and keep it level.
Before installing the battery, the battery carrier and hold-down clamp should be clean and free from corrosion and make
certain there are no parts in carrier.
To prevent the battery from shaking in its carrier, the hold-down bolts should be tight enough but not over-tightened.
Electrolyte Freezing
The freezing point of electrolyte depends on its specific gravity. Since freezing may ruin a battery, it should be protected against freezing by keeping it in
a fully charged condition. If a battery is frozen accidentally, it should not be charged until it is warmed.
Sulfation
If the battery is allowed to stand for a long period in discharged condition, the lead sulfate becomes converted into a hard, crystalline substance, which
will not easily turn back to the active material again during the subsequent recharging. "Sulfation" means the result as well as the process of that reaction.
Such a battery can be revived by very slow charging and may be restored to usable condition but its capacity is lower than before.
Built-in Indicator
The battery has a built-in temperature compensated indicator in the top of the battery. This indicator is to be used with the following diagnostic
procedure.
When checking the indicator, make sure that the battery has a clean top. A light may be needed in some poorly-lit areas.
Three types of indication available under normal operation are as follows.
