warning AUDI A4 1997 B5 / 1.G Battery Workshop Manual

27-2


Warnings and safety precautions for lead-acid batteries
1 - Follow the recommendations on the battery, in this Repair Manual
and in the Owners Manual.
2 - Danger of acid burns:
Battery acid is extremely caustic, therefore wear protective gloves
and eye protection.
Do not tip battery. Acid may escape from battery vents.
3 - Keep open flame, sparks, unenclosed light bulbs and lit smoking
materials away from battery.
Guard against creating sparks when working with cables and
electrical equipment.
- Avoid short-circuits.
4 - Wear eye protection
5 - Keep children away from acid and batteries.
6 - Proper disposal:
Waste batteries must be brought to appropriate waste disposal site.
Dispose of old batteries in compliance with applicable Federal,
State and local laws regarding hazardous waste disposal.
7 - Never discard old batteries in the household trash!
8 - Explosive hazard:
Highly explosive gas is produced when batteries are charged.
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27-7

Visual inspection


WARNING!

When charging, measuring the voltage or
load testing a battery, the cell caps must
always be screwed in tightly.
Before performing tests such as no-load voltage,
specific gravity or the battery load tests, a visual
check should be made of the battery.

The purpose of this check is to determine

If the case of the battery has been damaged.
Damage to the case can cause acid to leak.
If the terminals have been damaged. Damaged
terminals make it impossible to assure a good
contact at the terminal. This can lead to a cable
fire and damage to the electrical system.
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27-14

Specific gravity, checking


Special tools, test equipment and auxiliary
items

CAUTION!
Notes:
The specific gravity can be tested immediately after charging the battery.
Commercially available hydrometerShop towelWhen working with battery acid, make sure to follow all "Warnings
and safety precautions for lead-acid batteries." Wear suitable
protective clothing and eye protection. When disposing of batteries, always comply with applicable
Federal, State and local laws regarding the disposal of batteries
and sulfuric acid. In order to better determine the overall condition of a battery, always
perform a specific gravity test in conjunction with the load test. The temperature of the electrolyte must be at least 10 C (50 F).
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27-18

Load testing


In order to better determine the overall
condition of a battery, always perform a load
test in conjunction with the specific gravity
test.

Special tools, test equipment and auxiliary
items

Note:
When using the VAS1979 or VAS5033 battery tester, it is not necessary
to remove the battery or disconnect the battery cables.
VAS1979 or VAS5033 battery tester
- Follow warnings and safety precautions for lead-acid batteries. Wear
protective clothing such as face shield and leather gloves.
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