Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Summary
Inside a capacitor are two surfaces, separated by insulating material. When the
capacitor is charged, one surface is positively charged, the other is negatively
charged.
A capacitor can quickly store a small amount of electrical energy. It's then said to
be charged.
Inside, are two surfaces, separated by insulating material. When the capacitor is
charged, one surface is positively charged, the other is negative.
When a circuit is closed between its terminals, the capacitor releases charge. It is
then said to be discharged.
A typical capacitor stores the charge on thin sheets of foil, with sheets of
insulation between them. These are rolled together to form a protective canister.
Summary
Conductors are materials that allow electrical current to flow. Insulators are
materials that do not allow electrical current to flow.
Every substance, even air, will conduct an electrical current if enough voltage is
applied to it, but the word 'conductor' normally is used for materials that allow
current flow with little resistance.
Most metals are good conductors. The most common conductor is copper. It's
used in virtually all the wiring that connects automotive components together.
The heavier the current a conductor has to carry, the heavier the gauge or
thickness of the wire.
Materials that don't conduct current easily are insulators. Most plastics are good
insulators. The plastic covering on a wire is an example of this. The ceramic
portion of a spark plug is also a good insulator.
Wires
Summary
Electric wires are used to conduct electric current around the motor vehicle.
Electric wires are used to conduct electric current around the motor vehicle. The
wire is commonly braided multi-stranded copper core wrapped with plastic
insulation. Copper is used as it offers low resistance and remains flexible even
after years of use. Other wire configurations are shielded wires and ribbon.
Twisted or shielded wires have the same construction but are harnessed in pairs
and twisted to cancel the effect of electromagnetic interference.
Shielding
Summary
To prevent noise (interference), some vehicles use shielded wiring harnesses.
The type of shielding used can be one of three forms: twisted pair, Mylar tape
and drain lines
Twisted Pair
Twisted pair uses two wires delivering signals to a common component. The
wires are uniformly twisted through the entire length of the harness. The twist
has the effect of cancelling any noise that occurs in the wires.
Mylar Tape
Mylar is an electrically conductive material that is wrapped around a wiring
harness inside the outer harness layer. Any noise that attempts to reach the
wires inside the shield will be absorbed by the Mylar where it will be conducted
to ground via a ground connection. If the harness is exposed, the Mylar will have
to be rewrapped so that noise cannot penetrate into the harness.
Drain Lines
A Drain line is a non-insulated wire that is wrapped within a wiring harness. The
drain wire is connected to ground at the harness source end and conducts any
noise to ground, negating the noise effect. If the drain wire is cut, it will be
inoperative so it is important the wire is not cut.
Summary
As the length of the wire increases, so does the resistance within the wire.
Therefore the greater the length of the wire, the larger the cross-sectional area
needs to be.
Copper is used to conduct electric current because of its low resistance value.
However, it does offer some resistance, and as the length of the wire increases,
so too does the resistance within the wire. To overcome the effect of resistance,
the greater the length of the wire, the larger the cross-sectional area needs to
be. Increasing the cross-sectional area overcomes the resistance and maintains
the current carrying capacity of the circuit. Refer to the chart below for
information about wire size and current carrying capacity.
Current capacity for different AWG wire sizes
Amperes
Required
Wire Length
1
Meter
1.5
Meters
2
3
4.5
Meters Meters Meters
6
7.5
Meters Meters
0 to 5
18
18
18
18
18
18
18
6 to 7
18
18
18
18
18
18
16
18
18
18
18
18
16
16
10
18
18
18
18
16
16
16
12
18
18
18
18
16
16
14
15
18
18
18
18
14
14
12
18
18
18
16
16
14
14
12
20
18
18
16
16
14
12
10
24
18
18
16
16
12
12
10
30
18
16
16
14
10
10
10
Wire sizes
Summary
There are two scales used to measure the sizes of wires: Metric and AWG
(American Wire Gauge).
There are two scales used to measure the sizes of wires: Metric and AWG
(American Wire Gauge). The Metric scale is a measurement that indicates the
cross-sectional area of the conductor in square millimetres. The AWG system
uses a rating number; the larger the rating number, the smaller the wire and the
lower its current carrying capability. Most countries use the metric scale.
.22
24
.35
22
.5
20
.8
18
1.0
16
2.0
14
3.0
12
5.0
10
8.0
13.0
19.0
32.0
Summary
Fuses and circuit breakers are used to protect electrical systems from allowing
too much current to flow.
Fuses and circuit-breakers are designed to break the circuit if current flow is
excessive. The most common kinds are fuses, fusible links, and circuit breakers.
They are all rated in amperes. Their ratings are usually marked on them.
Fuses are typically used in lighting and accessory circuits where current flow is
usually moderate. Typically, a fuse contains a metal strip which is designed to
overheat and melt when subjected to a specified excessive level of current flow,
breaking the circuit and stopping the excessive current flow from potentially
damaging more valuable components.
A fusible link is typically placed near the battery, and, except for the starter
motor, it carries the current needed to power an individual circuit, or a range of
circuits.
Circuit breakers are not destroyed by excess current. A bimetallic strip heats up
and bends, opening a set of contacts and breaking the circuit. In most types, as
the strip cools, it resumes its original shape. The contacts close, completing the
circuit once more.
Relays
Summary
Relays act as switches that are turned on and off by a small current. They can
allow large current to be switched on and off in a circuit.
Relays are switches that are turned on and off by a small electrical current.
Inside a relay is an electro-magnet. When a small current energizes this electromagnet, it attracts an armature blade and closes contact points. Current that the
relay is designed to switch on or off can then flow across the points.
As long as the small switching current flows to the relay, the much larger current
will flow through its contact points.
Solid-state relays act like a mechanical relay, but do not have any moving parts.
Relays can be used to control the high levels of current in a circuit with a lowcurrent signal, such as in a starter motor solenoid. Relays can also be protective
switches, breaking circuits when faults are detected.
Ballast resistor
Summary
The ballast resistor is used to reduce the voltage to the ignition coil during
normal running conditions.
The most common automotive use for a ballast resistor is as to regulate the
voltage to the ignition system by being inserted in series in the primary circuit
between the ignition switch and the positive terminal of the ignition coil. It is
usually located in the open near the ignition coil so that it can dissipate its heat
into the air.
Cranking an engine causes a heavy load on a battery which can cause the
voltage to drop. Ignition systems needed to be designed so they can fire on this
reduced voltage, but when the engine is running normal operating voltage is
restored, which is then too high for the ignition system. The ballast resistor helps
the engine to fire more easily by being bypassed during cranking, and then
lowering the voltage when it is inserted into the circuit after the engine has
started to minimize wear on ignition components.
More modern solid state ignition systems do not need a ballast resistor, because
they have been designed to cope with a wider range of voltages.
Relays
Summary
Relays act as switches that are turned on and off by a small current. They can
allow large current to be switched on and off in a circuit.
Relays are switches that are turned on and off by a small electrical current.
Inside a relay is an electro-magnet. When a small current energizes this electromagnet, it attracts an armature blade and closes contact points. Current that the
relay is designed to switch on or off can then flow across the points.
As long as the small switching current flows to the relay, the much larger current
will flow through its contact points.
Solid-state relays act like a mechanical relay, but do not have any moving parts.
Relays can be used to control the high levels of current in a circuit with a lowcurrent signal, such as in a starter motor solenoid. Relays can also be protective
switches, breaking circuits when faults are detected.
Diodes
Summary
In a circuit with an alternating current, a diode lets forward current through, but
it blocks the reverse current. This is called rectifying the current.
Resistors
Summary
Resistors are used to cause a drop in voltage in circuits. They are used to control
current flow.
Resistors are electrical components that resist a current running through them.
Putting a resistor in a circuit causes a drop in voltage across the resistor. So
resistors are commonly used to control the voltage that reaches various
components.
It is also important to remember that each electrical component also has a
resistance of its own.
Most resistors that can carry large currents contain a coil of high-resistance wire
wound around a ceramic former to dissipate heat.
Resistor ratings
Summary
To identify its value, each resistor is marked with four or five colored bands. Each color represents a number value, so by reading the color
values it is possible to identify its resistance value.
Resistors are used to control current flow in a circuit, and are rated by their resistance value and their power rating. Only the resistance value is
marked. The resistor's power rating is determined by its size.
Regardless of their power rating, resistors are small, so identification by numbers is impractical. To identify its value, each resistor is marked with
four or five colored bands. Each color represents a number value, so by reading the color values it is possible to identify its resistance value.
The color bands are placed so that they are set close to each other and biased to the left. The last, or tolerance band, is spaced further apart.
The chart below explains resistor colors. It is good practice to memorise the various colors and their respective values.
Resistors are manufactured to a tolerance of 1, 2, 5 and 10%. A resistor with a tolerance of 1% will have an actual reading that is within 1% of its
marked value. Resistors with a tolerance of 1 or 2% will have five identifying bands. A resistor with a tolerance of 10% will have an actual value
that is within 10% of its marked value. Resistors with a tolerance of 5 or 10% will have 4 identifying bands. The tolerance band is spaced away
from the value bands.
If a resistor has four color bands, the first two bands indicate the first two numbers of the resistor's value. The third band represents the
multiplier value and the fourth band indicates the tolerance. The image below shows a resistor with colors, Orange, White, Yellow and Silver. It
has a value of 39 k with a 10% tolerance. (Orange - 3, White - 9, Yellow - 10000, Silver - 10%)
A resistor with five color bands adds a third number value, so in this case the first three bands indicate the first three numbers of the resistor's
value. The fourth band indicates the multiplier value and the fifth band indicates the tolerance. The image below shows a resistor with colors,
Orange, Orange, White, Black and Brown. It has a value of 339 with a 1% tolerance. (Orange - 3, Orange - 3, White - 9, Black - 1, Brown - 1%)
Variable resistors
Summary
Some resistors found in the motor vehicle are variable. Variable resistors can have their value altered by movement of a slide or by
temperature change.
Resistors found on circuit boards are normally fixed in value. Some resistors found in the motor vehicle are variable. Variable resistors can have
their value altered by movement of a slide or by temperature change. The three types of variable resistors are: Rheostats, Potentiometers and
Thermistors. Variable resistors can be linear; meaning that their resistance value varies proportionally with movement or temperature change, or
non-linear where the resistance change is not proportional with movement.
Rheostats
A rheostat is a mechanical variable resistor with two connections. They consist of a resistance wire wrapped in a loose coil connected to the
supply at one end only. A moveable wiper is connected to the other circuit connection and is made to move over the wire manually. When the
wiper is close to the beginning of the coil the total resistance value is very small. As the wiper is positioned closer to the end, the resistance
value increases. Rheostats are commonly used in dash light dimmer circuits and some fuel gauge sender units. They alter the current flow in a
circuit.
Potentiometers
Potentiometers are mechanical variable resistors with three connections, two fixed and one moveable. They act as voltage dividers and as such
alter the voltage in a circuit.
A resistance wire is wrapped between two fixed connections. One fixed connection is attached to the electrical supply, the other to ground. The
third moveable connection is moved across the coil by a wiper in a similar fashion to a rheostat. The variable voltage output is taken from this
point. Throttle position sensors are potentiometers.
Thermistors
Thermistors are conductors whose resistance value is affected by temperature. There are two types: NTC and PTC. Negative Temperature Coefficient thermistors alter their resistance value inversely to temperature. As the temperature increases their resistance value decreases. Positive
Temperature Co-efficient thermistors alter their resistance value proportionally to temperature. As temperature rises so does the resistance
value. NTC thermistors are the most common and are used in inverted circuits for ECU inputs. They are the sensing elements of devices such
as coolant and air temperature sensors.
Thermistors
Summary
Thermistors are semi-conductor resistors. Their resistance changes according to their temperature and they are used to control many
electrical items in the automobile.
Thermistors are semiconductor resistors. Their electrical resistance varies according to temperature. This makes them suitable for temperature
measurement, and for electronic control operations.
There are two main types of thermistor NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) resistors, and PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient)
resistors.
NTC resistors have lower resistance at high temperatures, which means they conduct current more readily when they are hot than when they
are cold. NTC resistors are commonly used in temperature sensors in engine management systems.
PTC resistors have higher resistance at high temperature, which means they conduct current less readily when they are hot than when they are
cold. This makes them useful as current limiting protective devices in circuits, instead of fuses. As the current increases, the heat generated by
the resistor increases, which reduces the amount of current passed.
Transistors
Summary
Transistors are used as switches, and to amplify currents. The 2 types of transistor are 'npn' and 'pnp'.
Transistors are semiconductor devices used as switches, and to amplify currents. They are a key component in almost any electronic device.
There are two kinds, npn and pnp. The npn transistor has a p-type semiconductor between two n-type semiconductors. A pnp transistor has an
n-type, between two p-types.
Each of the three regions has a terminal. The center region is always called the base. The outer regions are the collector, and the emitter. In the
symbol, the emitter is the terminal with the arrow. always pointing to the negative material.
In a circuit, npn transistors can act as a switch. If the control switch is open, the depletion layer at one pn-junction is blocking current from
flowing through the transistor and driving the load.
With a closed control switch, a small current flows through the emitter-base pn-junction. The base has only a limited number of charge carriers,
so extra ones flow across the emitter-collector pn-junction, letting current operate the load. The transistor then operates as a low-resistance
conductor. A small current through the base lets larger current flow across the emitter-collector junction. The transistor is then said to be turned
on.
Summary
Non-powered test lamps are very useful to determine a live part of a circuit. The
objective of this procedure is to show you how to use a non-powered test light.
Part 1. Preparation and safety
Objective
Personal safety
Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective
clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to
your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.
Safety check
Always make sure that you wear the appropriate personal protection
equipment before starting the job. It is very easy to hurt yourself even
when the most exhaustive protection measures are taken.
Always make sure that your work area/environment is as safe as you can
make it. Do not use damaged, broken or worn out workshop equipment.
Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal
safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure
of what these are, ask your supervisor.
Points to note
Using a lead light
Summary
Also known as drop lights or utility lights, the light a lead light produces can
make locating components and faults easier and more accurate. The objective of
this procedure is to show you how to demonstrate the correct method of
operating a lead light.
Part 1. Preparation and safety
Objective
Personal safety
Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective
clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to
your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.
Safety check
Before connecting the light to the power supply check the power cord for
splits or chafing. If there are any exposed wires, the cord will need to be
replaced. Refer this to your supervisor.
Before replacing blown or faulty bulbs make sure you disconnect the lead
light from its power supply.
Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal
safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure
of what these are, ask your supervisor.
Points to note
Lead lights, also known as drop lights or utility lights, are very useful tools.
The light they produce can make locating components and faults easier
and more accurate.
The type that uses fluorescent tubes produces white light and little heat.
The tube is protected in a shockproof casing that contains a light shield.
There will usually be attaching hooks located at either end of the case to
allow the light to be suspended from a convenient location.
Incandescent lead lights are cheaper than the fluorescent type but they
are not as shock resistant or as safe. A wire cage protects the bulb and if it
breaks the exposed filament connections can pass electric current to
anything that touches them. About 5% of the power they consume is
converted to yellow/white light. The rest is wasted as heat, so they can
become a hazard after long periods of use.
The power for the bulb usually comes from the domestic supply, however
there are some models that operate at 12- or 24-volts.
Summary
The objective of this procedure is to show you how to use a DVOM to measure
continuity. When checking continuity with a DVOM, the power supplied to the
circuit during operation MUST be switched OFF.
Part 1. Preparation and safety
Objective
Personal safety
Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective
clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to
your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.
Safety check
Always make sure that you wear the appropriate personal protection
equipment before starting the job. It is very easy to hurt yourself even
when the most exhaustive protection measures are taken.
Always make sure that your work area/environment is as safe as you can
make it. Do not use damaged, broken or worn out workshop equipment.
Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal
safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure
of what these are, ask your supervisor.
Points to note
When checking continuity with a DVOM, the power supplied to the circuit
during operation MUST be switched OFF.
longer complete a circuit when a DVOM is used to test it. To check this,
place the black probe on one end of the fuse and the red probe on the
other. If the fuse is functioning correctly then the reading will be zero,
indicating a complete, or closed, circuit. If the fuse is open, then there will
be no reading and no tone, indicating an incomplete, or open, circuit.
4. Test other components
A continuity test is used to check for a broken circuit caused by a break in
a cable or lead, or caused by a component becoming disconnected. The
same test can also confirm whether there is continuity between
components, which are not supposed to be connected. When this occurs, it
is known as a short circuit. This test can also be used to check circuits
that are suspected to have a high resistance
Summary
The objective of this procedure is to show you how to use a DVOM to measure
voltage. Always follow the specific manufacturer's instructions in the use of the
meter, or serious damage either to the meter and/or to the electrical circuit could
result.
Part 1. Preparation and safety
Objective
Personal safety
Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective
clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to
your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.
Safety check
Always make sure that you wear the appropriate personal protection
equipment before starting the job. It is very easy to hurt yourself even
when the most exhaustive protection measures are taken.
Always make sure that your work area/environment is as safe as you can
make it. Do not use damaged, broken or worn out workshop equipment.
Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal
safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure
of what these are, ask your supervisor.
Points to note
Summary
The objective of this procedure is to show you how to correctly strip an electrical
wire and connect a solderless connector. Always use the correct tool for stripping
the insulation from a wire, it is much safer and more effective.
Part 1. Preparation and safety
Objective
Personal safety
Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective
clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to
your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.
Safety check
Never use a sharp blade or knife to remove insulation. You can cut yourself
seriously if the blade slips.
Wire stripping pliers have sharp edges and require a tight grip. Do not trap
your skin between the jaws; otherwise you risk a severe cut.
When removing the insulation from wire, push away from you rather than
towards you.
Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal
safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure
of what these are, ask your supervisor.
Points to note
Wire stripping tools come in various configurations. They all perform the
same task. The type of tool you use or purchase will depend on the
amount of electrical wire repairs you perform.
Summary
There are different types and sizes of wire terminals, but the procedure for
installing all of them is the same. The objective of this procedure is to show you
how to correctly strip an electrical wire and connect a solderless terminal.
Part 1. Preparation and safety
Objective
Personal safety
Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective
clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to
your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.
Safety check
Wire stripping pliers have sharp edges and require a tight grip. Do not trap
your skin between the jaws; otherwise you risk a severe cut.
When removing the insulation from wire, push away from you rather than
towards you.
Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal
safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure
of what these are, ask your supervisor.
Points to note
Do not use side cutters, pliers or a knife to strip the wire. Using these tools
will damage some of the wire strands and may break the wire inside the
insulation.
To keep the wires together after stripping them, give them a slight twist.
Do not twist the wire too much; otherwise you risk a poor wire-to-terminal
connection.
Use the correct crimping tool for the connection. Using the wrong type of
tool will cause the connection to have a poor grip on the wire.
Summary
Solder is applied with a hot soldering iron. Solder is available as solid or flux
cored. Solid solder requires an external flux to be applied in the soldering
process. The objective of this procedure is to show you how to correctly solder an
electrical connection to an electrical wire.
Part 1. Preparation and safety
Objective
Personal safety
Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective
clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to
your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.
Safety check
The soldering iron tip needs to be very hot in order to melt solder. Do not
burn yourself with the soldering tip.
Do not inhale the fumes that are released during the soldering process;
they can irritate your respiratory system.
Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal
safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure
of what these are, ask your supervisor.
Points to note
Flux is needed to prevent the metals being joined from oxidizing when
they are heated. Flux is normally acidic and needs to be removed after the
soldering process so that the join does not corrode.
Solder is applied with a hot soldering iron. The soldering iron is heated
electrically or by an external source such as a butane or oxyacetylene
torch.
The soldering iron tip absorbs heat that is then applied to the materials to
be joined. Once they are hot enough, solder is able to melt between the
components.
The soldering iron tip is applied to the wire so heat is transferred to the
wire. Do not apply too much heat or the insulation may melt.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
Lead-acid batteries
16.
17.
18.
19. Summary
20.
Lead-acid batteries are the most commonly used rechargeable batteries today. They also represent the oldest design with one of the worst
energy-to-weight ratios, they are cheap and can supply the high surge currents needed in starter motors.
21.
22.
The wet cell lead acid battery is the main storage device in automotive use. An automotive battery can supply very high discharge currents while
maintaining a high voltage - useful for cold starting. It gives a high power output for its compact size, and it is recharge-able.
23.
The most common standard 12-volt car batteries consist of six cells, each of a nominal 2 volts. Each cell contains two electrodes, one of lead
(Pb) and the other of lead peroxide (PbO2), in an electrolyte of dilute sulfuric acid (H2SO4). As the battery discharges, both the electrodes turn
into lead sulfate and the acid turns into water. Recharging the battery reverses this process.
24.
In a conventional open wet-cell battery, overcharging will generate hydrogen and oxygen gas, a highly explosive mix. The sulfuric acid in
batteries can also be very harmful, so batteries should always be handled with care, and only when wearing protective clothing.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35. Summary
36.
Increasing the surface area of the plates in a cell increases its current capacity, but not its nominal voltage. Cells connected in series make a
battery. The number of cells determines its nominal voltage.
37.
38.
39.
There are two types of cell, primary and secondary. In a primary cell, this transformation is not reversible, and the cell is discarded at the end of
its life. In the secondary cell, the transformation is reversible, and it can be re-charged.
40.
There are two types of secondary cell, wet and dry. In automotive use, the usual main-storage device is the wet cell of a lead acid battery. It has
two plates of dissimilar materials immersed in an electrolyte a solution that conducts electricity by using ions.
41.
The accepted, or nominal, voltage of a cell does not depend on the size of the cell, however, its current capacity does. The surface area of the
plates in a cell determines its current capacity.
42.
In a lead acid battery, the plates are assembled so there is always one extra negative plate. The plates are close to each other but do not touch,
which would cause a short circuit.
43.
The nominal voltage of a cell is 2 volts. Cells connected in series make a battery, and the number of cells determines its nominal voltage. The
cells are sealed from each other and filled with dilute sulfuric acid. The battery case is usually plastic or hard rubber.
44.
One set of plates is connected to the negative side of a DC source, the other to the positive side. Direct current is applied to the plates, changing
them chemically, until the battery is ready for service.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
Battery charging
52.
53.
54.
55. Summary
56.
During discharge, the chemical energy of the plates is transformed into electrical energy, then used to perform work. The plates develop the
same composition, which reduces the potential of the cell.
57.
58.
In a discharged lead-acid cell, the active material of both plates is lead sulfate, and the electrolyte is mostly water, a very weak sulfuric acid
solution.
59.
When being charged, the cell is connected to a DC electrical source with electrical pressure higher than that of the cell, since it must act like an
electron pump forcing electrons from the positive plates to the negative plates.
60.
At the negative plates, sulfate is discharged. More sulfuric acid forms, and the plate changes into sponge lead. At the same time, lead peroxide
is formed at the positive plates, which restores the cell's electrical potential.
61.
The charging process increases the amount of acid in the electrolyte, making the electrolyte stronger. When further charging no longer makes
the electrolyte stronger, charging is complete.
62.
Connecting a lead acid battery to a load causes chemical changes as the battery discharges.
63.
At the positive plate, sulfate from the electrolyte joins with lead to form lead sulfate, and oxygen from the plate joins the hydrogen from the
electrolyte to form water. Lead sulfate also forms at the negative plate, as sponge lead forms with sulfate from the electrolyte.
64.
Overall, the percentage of acid in the electrolyte falls, and the percentage of water rises, which reduces the strength of the electrolyte. As the
cell discharges, the plates develop the same composition, which reduces the potential of the cell.
65.
Recharging the battery again restores the difference between its sets of plates.
Summary
Batteries come in many sizes and power ratings, so always check the rating of
the battery you are servicing. The objective of this procedure is to show you how
to inspect and test a battery.
Part 1. Preparation and safety
Objective
Personal safety
Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective
clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to
your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.
Safety check
Make sure that the hood is secure with a hood stay rod.
Always make sure that you wear the appropriate personal protection
equipment before starting the job. Remember that batteries contain acid
and it is very easy to hurt yourself even when the most exhaustive
protection measures are taken.
Always make sure that your work area/environment is as safe as you can
make it. Do not use damaged, broken or worn out workshop equipment.
Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal
safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure
of what these are, ask your supervisor.
Points to note
Batteries come in many sizes and power ratings, so always check the
rating of the battery you are servicing. The rating provides a testing
benchmark for battery performance.
Store the hydrometer in a safe receptacle before and after use. Small
amounts of electrolyte in the hydrometer can leak out and damage the
vehicle paintwork.
Do not remove electrolyte from one cell to another when testing; this will
cause incorrect readings.
Refer to the manual of the particular tester for its operating instructions. A
load tester induces a high rate of discharge in the battery, like the load
created by a cranking starter motor. A battery is rated in ampere hours,
which means that it can supply a certain number of amperes for a
specified length of time under continuous load. Another measurement
used is International Standard Cold Cranking Amps. Check the
specifications for the battery you are testing. If it can meet these
specifications under a load test then it is in good condition. There are
different makes and types of load testers. Always use the equipment
manufacturers recommended testing procedure.
Summary
The objective of this procedure is to show you how to clean and replace an
automotive battery. The first step is to disconnect the battery, always removing
the clamp from the negative terminal first.
Part 1. Preparation and safety
Objective
Personal safety
Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective
clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to
your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.
Safety check
Make sure that the hood is secure with a hood stay rod before going under
it.
Always make sure that you wear the appropriate personal protection
equipment before starting the job. Remember, batteries contain acid and
it is very easy to hurt yourself even when the most exhaustive protection
measures are taken.
Always make sure that your work area/environment is as safe as you can
make it. Do not use damaged, broken or worn out workshop equipment.
Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal
safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure
of what these are, ask your supervisor.
Points to note
Always remove the negative terminal first when disconnecting the battery
and fit the negative terminal last when reconnecting the battery.
Be sure that you do not connect the battery up with reverse polarity
because this could send an unwanted voltage spike into the electronic
circuit and possibly damage the Electronic Control Unit (ECU).
Disconnecting the battery will usually clear all the codes that are used to
maintain the memory for the vehicle's on-board computer. This may erase
all the radio presets and security codes.
In some cases, the vehicle will even go into a type of "sleep" mode. This
can prevent the vehicle from starting after the battery has been
reconnected.
4. Clean terminals
If there are powdery deposits on the terminals, clean them off. It may be
enough to brush the deposits off the terminal posts and cable clamps with
a non-metallic brush and a mixture of baking soda and water. Sprinkle the
baking soda onto the terminal, dip the brush in clean water, and scrub the
deposits away. If this is not effective, use a battery terminal cleaner and
brush to provide a good, solid mechanical and electrical connection.
5. Clean clamps
Examine the battery cables to see whether they are badly frayed or
corroded. If the damage looks extensive, the cables and clamps should be
replaced. Clean the insides of the cable clamps with the clamp cleaner
that is usually supplied with a terminal brush. If you dont have the correct
brushes, use a soapless steel wool pad instead. Dry the terminals and
clamps with a clean, disposable, lint-free rag. To prevent corrosive deposits
from forming, coat the terminals with some anti-corrosion terminal grease.
6. Clean the battery tray
Clean the battery tray with a mixture of baking soda and water, or some
other approved cleaning solutions using a small non-metallic brush. Wipe
the tray clean and dry, then replace the cleaned and serviceable battery.
Replace the restraints and make sure they are holding the battery securely
in position. If a new battery is to be installed be sure to compare the
outside dimensions as well as the type of terminals and their locations
prior to installation. These MUST meet the original manufacturers
specifications.
7. Reconnect the battery terminals
Reconnect the battery terminals, Positive first, and then Negative. Test
that you have a good electrical connection by starting the vehicle.
Charging a battery
Summary
The objective of this procedure is to show you how to correctly charge a battery
using battery charging equipment. Before charging a battery always carry out a
visual inspection of the battery to ensure there are no cracks or holes in the
casing.
Part 1. Preparation and safety
Objective
Personal safety
Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective
clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to
your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.
Safety check
Make all connections between the battery charger and the battery to be
charged before connecting to the power supply or turning ON any
switches.
Make sure that the voltage used to charge the system never exceeds the
system design while charging. For instance if you connect two 12 volt
batteries in 'series' for charging you should use the 24 volt setting on the
charger, however if you connect the same two batteries in 'parallel' you
should only use the 12 volt setting on the charger.
Always use the markings on the battery to determine the positive and
negative terminals. Never simply use the colour of the cables to determine
the positive or negative terminals.
Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal
safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure
of what these are, ask your supervisor.
Points to note
Slow charging a battery is less stressful on a battery than fast charging is.
After charging the battery and reinstalling it, always clean the battery
terminals and posts.