D 100 Pickup V8-318 5.2L (1985)
Technical Service Bulletin # 080386
Date: 860407
Battery & Charging System - General Information
Models
All Passenger Cars & Trucks
Subject
Battery & Charging System Information
Index
ELECTRICAL
Date
April 7, 1986
No.
08-03-86
P-1271
This bulletin outlines the proper procedures that should be followed for charging system diagnosis, battery testing, charging, and storage.
WARNING:
ALL BATTERIES GENERATE HYDROGEN GAS, WHICH IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE. IF IGNITED BY A SPARK OR
FLAME, THE GAS MAY EXPLODE VIOLENTLY, CAUSING SPRAYING OF ACID, FRAGMENTATION OF THE
BATTERY, AND POSSIBLE SEVERE PERSONAL INJURIES. WEAR APPROVED EYE PROTECTION. BATTERY FLUID
IS A CORROSIVE ACID. FLUSH ANY CONTACTED AREA WITH WATER IMMEDIATELY AND THOROUGHLY.
Vehicle Storage
Today's vehicles have electronic components that require memory retention during a KEY OFF condition. Though KEY OFF loads are small, over an
extended period of time they will affect the performance of the battery. Storage at low states of charge can result in permanent battery damage due to
internal corrosion. Storage at low states of charge will also result in battery freezing. Therefore, vehicles that are NOT to be used for extended periods of
time need special attention.
To prevent battery damage you should check and charge (until the GREEN DOT appears), if necessary, all batteries upon receipt of vehicles. For
vehicles in storage, disconnect the large bullet connector supplying power to the vehicle. Check and charge all batteries prior to delivering the vehicle to
the customer.
NOTE:
THE IGNITION SWITCH MUST BE OFF WHEN CONNECTING OR DISCONNECTING BATTERY CABLES OR CHARGERS.
FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE TO ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS.
Repair Area, Built-In Test & Battery Visual Inspection Information
VEHICLES IN THE REPAIR AREA
If a vehicle is going to be in the repair area for a prolonged period of time, the technician should disconnect the battery except when battery use is
required for the repair. This will avoid battery drains from an open hood, deck lid, doors, etc.
The battery is the primary component in the vehicle's electrical system. It is very important that the battery be capable of delivering the current when
necessary, as well as accepting current under charging conditions.
Another important function of the battery is as a giant capacitor (shock absorber) in the electrical system. It absorbs surges and acts as a buffer to the
electrical system under short-term high-load conditions.
All vehicles are equipped with maintenance-free batteries. They have nonremovable battery caps, and never require the addition of water. The battery is
sealed except for small vent holes in the cover. The ability to seal the battery is a result of special chemical composition changes made within the battery
and the plates. These changes allow only very small amounts of gasses to be generated under normal conditions.
BUILT-IN TEST INDICATOR
The battery contains a visual test indicator, or hydrometer, molded into the top of the battery case. The test indicator will visually display the "state of
charge" of the battery. When the battery is at an adequate state of charge (100% to 75%), the indicator will be GREEN. When charging is required, the