ignition CHRYSLER VOYAGER 1996 User Guide

DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
CLUTCH RELEASE SYSTEM
CLUTCH CABLE Ð LHD
The manual transaxle clutch release system has a
unique self-adjusting mechanism to compensate for
clutch disc wear (Fig. 7). This adjuster mechanism is
located within the clutch cable assembly. The preload
spring maintains tension on the cable. This tension
keeps the clutch release bearing continuously loaded
against the fingers of the clutch cover assembly.
HYDRAULIC CLUTCH Ð RHD
Leverage, clamping force, and friction are what
make the clutch work. The disc serves as the friction
element and a diaphragm spring and pressure plate
provide the clamping force. The clutch pedal, hydrau-
lic linkage, release lever and bearing provide the
leverage to disengage and engage the modular clutch
assembly.
The modular clutch assembly contains the cover,
diaphragm spring, pressure plate, disc and flywheel
in one unit. The modular clutch also uses a drive
plate and is bolted to and driven by the drive plate.
The clutch linkage uses hydraulic pressure to oper-
ate the clutch. The clutch master cylinder push rod is
connected to the clutch pedal and the slave cylinder
push rod is connected to the release lever in the
clutch housing.
Depressing the clutch pedal develops fluid pressure
in the clutch master cylinder. This pressure is trans-
mitted to the slave cylinder through a connecting
line. In turn, the slave cylinder operates the clutch
release lever.
The clutch release bearing is mounted on the
transmission front bearing retainer. The bearing is
attached to the release lever, which moves the bear-
ing into contact with the clutch cover diaphragm
spring.Slave cylinder force causes the release lever to
move the release bearing into contact with the dia-
phragm spring. As additional force is applied, the
bearing presses the diaphragm spring fingers inward
on the fulcrums. This action moves the pressure
plate rearward relieving clamp force on the disc. The
clutch disc is disengaged and not driven at this point.
The process of clutch engagement is simply the
reverse of what occurs during disengagement. Releas-
ing pedal pressure removes clutch linkage pressure.
The release bearing moves away from the diaphragm
spring which allows the pressure plate to exert
clamping force on the clutch disc.
CLUTCH PEDAL POSITION SWITCH
The clutch pedal position switch functions as a
safety interlock device. It prevents possible engine
cranking with the clutch engaged.
The clutch pedal position switch is wired in series
between the starter relay coil and the ignition
switch.
The clutch pedal position switch is mounted to a
bracket located behind the clutch pedal. The switch
is held in place by four plastic wing tabs.
The clutch pedal position switch IS NOT adjust-
able. The pedal blade contacts the switch in the down
position (Fig. 8).
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
CLUTCH PEDAL POSITION SWITCH
CLUTCH PEDAL POSITION
SWITCH±ELECTRICAL TEST
Disconnect clutch pedal position switch harness
from instrument panel wiring harness. Using an
ohmmeter, check for continuity between the two ter-
minals in the connector on the switch harness. There
should be no continuity between the terminals when
Fig. 7 Clutch Cable Ð LHD
Fig. 8 Clutch Pedal Position Switch and
Components Ð LHD Shown
6 - 4 CLUTCHNS/GS

CLUTCH DIAGNOSIS
Problem diagnosis will generally require a road
test to determine the type of fault. Component
inspection will then determine the problem after road
testing.
Drive the vehicle at normal speeds during road
test. Shift the transaxle through all gear ranges andobserve clutch action. If chatter, grab, slip, or
improper release is experienced, remove and inspect
the clutch components. If the problem is noise or
hard shifting, further diagnosis may be needed. The
transaxle or other driveline components may actually
be at fault.
SERVICE DIAGNOSIS±CLUTCH GRAB/CHATTER
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
CLUTCH DISC FACING
COVERED WITH OIL OR
GREASEOil leak at engine rear main or transaxle
input shaft sealCorrect leak and replace clutch assembly
NO FAULT FOUND WITH
CLUTCH
COMPONENTSProblem actually related to suspension
or driveline componentFurther diagnosis required. Check
engine/transmission mounts, suspension
attaching parts and other driveline
components as needed.
Engine related problems Check EFI and ignition systems
PARTIAL ENGAGEMENT
OF CLUTCH DISCClutch cover, spring, or release fingers
bent, distorted (rough handling, improper
assembly)Replace clutch assembly
Clutch disc damaged or distorted Replace clutch assembly
Clutch misalignment Check alignment and runout of flywheel,
disc, or cover. Check clutch housing to
engine dowels and dowel holes for
damage. Correct as necessary.
SERVICE DIAGNOSIS±CLUTCH SLIPS
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
DISC FACING WORN
OUTNormal wear. Replace clutch assembly.
Driver frequently rides (slips) clutch,
results in rapid wear overheating.Replace clutch assembly
Insufficient clutch cover diaphragm
spring tensionReplace clutch assembly
CLUTCH DISC FACING
CONTAMINATED WITH
OIL OR GREASELeak at rear main oil seal or transaxle
input shaft sealReplace leaking seals. Replace clutch
assembly.
Road splash, water entering housing Seal housing. Inspect clutch assembly.
CLUTCH IS RUNNING
PARTIALLY
DISENGAGEDRelease bearing sticking or binding,
does not return to normal running
position.Verify that bearing is actually binding.
Then, replace bearing and transmission
front bearing retainer if sleeve surface is
damaged.
Cable self-adjuster mechanism sticking
or binding causing high preload (LHD
Applications only)Verify that self-adjuster is free to move
(LHD Applications only)
CLUTCH DISC FACINGS
HAVE FRACTURED INTO
SMALL PIECESDriver performs a 5-1 downshift at
vehicle speed in excess of 60 miles per
hourAlert driver to problem cause. Replace
clutch assembly.
Excessive heat from slippage Replace clutch assembly
6 - 6 CLUTCHNS/GS
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

BATTERY
CONTENTS
page page
GENERAL INFORMATION
INTRODUCTION......................... 1
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND WARNINGS..... 1
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
BATTERY IGNITION OFF DRAW (IOD)........ 1
CHARGING TIME REQUIRED............... 2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
BATTERY BUILT-IN TEST INDICATOR........ 2
BATTERY IGNITION OFF DRAW (IOD)........ 3
BATTERY LOAD TEST..................... 4
BATTERY OPEN CIRCUIT VOLTAGE TEST..... 6SERVICE PROCEDURES
BATTERY CHARGING..................... 6
CHARGING COMPLETELY DISCHARGED
BATTERY............................. 7
VISUAL INSPECTION..................... 7
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
BATTERY TRAY.......................... 9
BATTERY............................... 8
SPECIFICATIONS
BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS............... 10
TORQUE.............................. 10
GENERAL INFORMATION
INTRODUCTION
The battery stores, stabilizes, and delivers electri-
cal current to operate various electrical systems in
the vehicle. The determination of whether a battery
is good or bad is made by its ability to accept a
charge. It also must supply high-amperage current
for a long enough period to be able to start the vehi-
cle. The capability of the battery to store electrical
current comes from a chemical reaction. This reac-
tion takes place between the sulfuric acid solution
(electrolyte) and the lead +/- plates in each cell of the
battery. As the battery discharges, the plates react
with the acid from the electrolyte. When the charging
system charges the battery, the water is converted to
sulfuric acid in the battery. The concentration of acid
in the electrolyte is measured as specific gravity
using a hydrometer. The original equipment (OE)
battery is equipped with a hydrometer (test indica-
tor) built into the battery cover. The specific gravity
indicates the battery's state-of-charge. The OE bat-
tery is sealed and water cannot be added.
The battery is vented to release gases that are cre-
ated when the battery is being charged and dis-
charged. The battery top, posts, and terminals should
be cleaned when other under hood maintenance is
performed.
When the electrolyte level is below the top of the
plates, Clear in the test Indicator, the battery must
be replaced. The battery must be completely charged,
and the battery top, posts, and cable clamps must be
cleaned before diagnostic procedures are performed.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND WARNINGS
WARNING: DO NOT ALLOW JUMPER CABLE
CLAMPS TO TOUCH EACH OTHER WHEN CON-
NECTED TO A BOOSTER SOURCE. DO NOT USE
OPEN FLAME NEAR BATTERY. REMOVE METALLIC
JEWELRY WORN ON HANDS OR WRISTS TO AVOID
INJURY BY ACCIDENTAL ARCING OF BATTERY
CURRENT.
WHEN USING A HIGH OUTPUT BOOSTING DEVICE,
DO NOT ALLOW THE DISABLED VEHICLE'S BAT-
TERY TO EXCEED 16 VOLTS. PERSONAL INJURY
OR DAMAGE TO ELECTRICAL SYSTEM CAN
RESULT.
TO PROTECT THE HANDS FROM BATTERY ACID, A
SUITABLE PAIR OF HEAVY DUTY RUBBER
GLOVES, NOT THE HOUSEHOLD TYPE, SHOULD
BE WORN WHEN REMOVING OR SERVICING A
BATTERY. SAFETY GLASSES ALSO SHOULD BE
WORN.
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
BATTERY IGNITION OFF DRAW (IOD)
A completely normal vehicle will have a small
amount of current drain on the battery with the key
out of the ignition. It can range from 5 to 25 milli-
amperes after all the modules time out. If a vehicle
will not be operated for approximately a 20 days, the
IOD fuse should be pulled to eliminate the vehicle
electrical drain on the battery. The IOD fuse is
NSBATTERY 8A - 1

use. Refer to Causes of Battery Discharging in this
Group for more information.
NOTE: CLEAR COLOR = Replace Battery
WARNING: DO NOT CHARGE, ASSIST BOOST,
LOAD TEST, OR ADD WATER TO THE BATTERY
WHEN CLEAR COLOR DOT IS VISIBLE. PERSONAL
INJURY MAY OCCUR.
A clear color dot shows electrolyte level in battery
is below the test indicator (Fig. 1). Water cannot be
added to a maintenance free battery. The battery
must be replaced. A low electrolyte level may be
caused by an over charging condition. Refer to Gen-
erator Test Procedures on Vehicle.
CAUSES OF BATTERY DISCHARGING
It is normal to have a small 5 to 25 milliamperes
continuous electrical draw from the battery. This
draw will take place with the ignition in the OFF
position, and the courtesy, dome, storage compart-
ments, and engine compartment lights OFF. The con-
tinuous draw is due to various electronic features or
accessories that require electrical current with the
ignition OFF to function properly. When a vehicle is
not used over an extended period of approximately 20
days the IOD fuse should be pulled. The fuse is
located in the power distribution center. Disconnec-
tion of this fuse will reduce the level of battery dis-
charge. Refer to Battery Diagnosis and Testing table
and to the proper procedures.
ABNORMAL BATTERY DISCHARGING
²Corroded battery posts, cables or terminals.
²Loose or worn generator drive belt.
²Electrical loads that exceed the output of the
charging system due to equipment or accessories
installed after delivery.
²Slow driving speeds in heavy traffic conditions
or prolonged idling with high-amperage electrical
systems in use.²Defective electrical circuit or component causing
excess Ignition Off Draw (IOD). Refer to Battery
Ignition Off Draw (IOD).
²Defective charging system.
²Defective battery.
BATTERY IGNITION OFF DRAW (IOD)
High current draw on the battery with the ignition
OFF will discharge a battery. After a dead battery is
serviced the vehicle Ignition Off Draw (IOD) should
be checked. Determine if a high current draw condi-
tion exists first check the vehicle with a test lamp.
(1) Verify that all electrical accessories are OFF.
²Remove key from ignition switch
²Turn off all lights
²Liftgate and glove box door is closed
²Sun visor vanity lights are OFF
²All doors are closed
²Allow the Illuminated Entry System to time out
in approximately 30 seconds, if equipped.
²During Transmission Control Module (TCM)
power down there will be 500 milliamperes present
for 20 minutes. Afterwards less than 1.0 milliampere.
(2) Disconnect battery negative cable (Fig. 4).
CAUTION: Always disconnect the meter before
opening a door.
(3) Using an multimeter, that has least a milliam-
pere range of 200 mA. Set meter to the highest mA
range. Install meter between the battery negative
cable and battery negative post (Fig. 5). Carefully
remove the test lamp without disconnecting the
meter. After all modules time-out the total vehicle
IOD should be less than 25 milliamperes. If ignition
off draw is more than 25 milliamperes go to Step 4.
(4) Each time the test lamp or milliampere meter
is disconnected and connected, all electronic timer
functions will be activated for approximately one
minute. The Body Control Module (BCM) ignition off
draw can reach 90 milliamperes.
(5) Remove the PDC fuses:
²Interior lamps
²Brake lamp
²IOD
(6) If there is any reading, with fuses removed
there is a short circuit in the wiring. Refer to Group
8W, wiring diagrams. If reading is less than 25 mA
go to Step 8.
(7) Install all fuses. After installing fuse, the cur-
rent can reach 90 mA. After time-out the reading
should not exceed 25 mA. If OK go to. If not, discon-
nect:
²Radio
²Body Control Module
²Remote Keyless Entry Module
Fig. 3 Test Indicator
NSBATTERY 8A - 3
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

(8) Disconnect one component at time, to see if any
component is at fault. If the high reading is not elim-
inated there is a short circuit in the wiring. Refer to
Group 8W, wiring diagrams.
(9) Remove interior and brake lamp fuses. Install
the fuses. The milliampere reading should be 2-4 mA.
If reading is higher than 4 mA:
(a) Disconnect PCM.
(b) If reading is OK, replace PCM.(c) If reading does not change, disconnect the
TCM.
(d) If reading is OK, replace TCM.
(e) If reading stays, there is a short circuit to
one of the modules. Refer to Group 8W, Wiring
Diagrams.
BATTERY LOAD TEST
A fully charged battery must have cranking capac-
ity, to provide the starter motor and ignition system
enough power to start the engine over a broad range
of ambient temperatures. A battery load test will ver-
ify the actual cranking capability of the battery.
WARNING: IF BATTERY SHOWS SIGNS OF FREEZ-
ING, LEAKING, LOOSE POSTS, OR EXCESSIVELY
LOW ELECTROLYTE LEVEL, DO NOT TEST. ACID
BURNS OR AN EXPLOSIVE CONDITION MAY
RESULT.
(1) Remove both battery cables, negative cable
first. The battery top, cables and posts should be
BATTERY DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
STEPS POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
VISUAL INSPECTION
Check for possible damage to
battery and clean battery.(1) Loose battery post, Cracked
battery cover or case, Leaks or Any
other physical
(2) Battery OK.(1) Replace Battery
(2) Check state of charge. Refer to
Test Indicator.
TEST INDICATOR
Check Charge Eye Color(1) GREEN
(2) BLACK
(3) CLEAR(1) Battery is charged. Perform
Battery 0pen Circuit Voltage Test
(2) Perform Battery Charging
procedure.
(3) Replace Battery.
BATTERY OPEN CIRCUIT
VOLTAGE TEST(1) Battery is above 12.40 Volts
(2) Battery is below 12.40 Volts.(1) Perform the Battery Load Test.
(2) Perform Battery Charging
procedure.
BATTERY CHARGING (1) Battery accepted Charge.
(2) Battery will not accept charge(1) Ensure that the indicator eye is
GREEN and perform Battery 0pen
Circuit Voltage Test
(2) Perform Charging a Completely
Discharged Battery.
BATTERY LOAD TEST (1) Acceptable minimum voltage.
(2) Unacceptable minimum voltage(1) Battery is OK to put in use,
perform Battery Ignition Off Draw
Test.
(2) Replace Battery and perform
Battery Ignition Off Draw Test.
CHARGING A COMPLETELY
DISCHARGED BATTERY(1) Battery accepted charge.
(2) Battery will not accept charge.(1) Ensure that the indicator eye is
GREEN and perform Battery 0pen
Circuit Voltage Test.
(2) Replace Battery.
IGNITION OFF DRAW TEST (1) IOD is 5-25 Milliamperes.
(2) IOD Exceeds 25 Milliamperes.(1) Vehicle is normal.
(2) Eliminate excess IOD draw.
Fig. 4 Disconnect Battery Negative Cable
8A - 4 BATTERYNS
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
BATTERY
WARNING: TO PROTECT THE HANDS FROM BAT-
TERY ACID, A SUITABLE PAIR OF HEAVY DUTY
RUBBER GLOVES, NOT THE HOUSEHOLD TYPE,
SHOULD BE WORN WHEN REMOVING OR SERVIC-ING A BATTERY. SAFETY GLASSES ALSO SHOULD
BE WORN.
REMOVAL
(1) Verify that the ignition switch and all accesso-
ries are OFF.
(2) Disconnect battery cable terminals from the
battery posts, negative first (Fig. 14).
(3) Remove battery heat shield (Fig. 15).
(4) Remove battery hold down (Fig. 16).
(5) Remove battery from vehicle (Fig. 17).
INSTALLATION
Inspect and clean battery and attaching compo-
nents before installation.
(1) Install battery in vehicle making sure that bat-
tery is properly positioned on battery tray.
(2) Install battery hold down.
Fig. 12 Cleaning Battery Post
Fig. 13 Cleaning Battery Cable Terminal
Fig. 14 Battery Cable Disconnected
Fig. 15 Battery Heat Shield
8A - 8 BATTERYNS
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)

BATTERY
CONTENTS
page page
GENERAL INFORMATION
INTRODUCTION........................ 1
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND WARNINGS.... 1
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
BATTERY IGNITION OFF DRAW (IOD)....... 2
CHARGING TIME REQUIRED.............. 2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
BATTERY DISCHARGING................. 3
BATTERY IGNITION OFF DRAW............ 3
BATTERY LOAD TEST................... 5
BATTERY OPEN CIRCUIT VOLTAGE TEST.... 6SERVICE PROCEDURES
BATTERY CHARGING.................... 6
CHARGING COMPLETELY DISCHARGED
BATTERY............................ 7
VISUAL INSPECTION.................... 7
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
BATTERY............................. 8
BATTERY TRAY........................ 9
SPECIFICATIONS
BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS............... 9
TORQUE............................. 10
GENERAL INFORMATION
INTRODUCTION
The battery stores, stabilizes, and delivers electri-
cal current to operate various electrical systems in
the vehicle (Fig. 1). The determination of whether a
battery is good or bad is made by its ability to accept
a charge. It also must supply high-amperage current
for a long enough period to be able to start the vehi-
cle. The capability of the battery to store electrical
current comes from a chemical reaction. This reac-
tion takes place between the sulfuric acid solution
(electrolyte) and the lead +/- plates in each cell of the
battery. As the battery discharges, the plates react
with the acid from the electrolyte. When the charging
system charges the battery, the water is converted to
sulfuric acid in the battery. The concentration of acid
in the electrolyte is measured as specific gravity
using a hydrometer. The specific gravity indicates the
battery's state-of-charge.
The battery is vented to release gases that are cre-
ated when the battery is being charged and dis-
charged.
The battery top, posts, and terminals should be
cleaned when other under hood maintenance is per-
formed.
The battery top, posts, cable clamps must be
cleaned and battery must be completely charged
before diagnostic procedures are performed.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND WARNINGS
WARNING:
DO NOT ALLOW JUMPER CABLE CLAMPS TO
TOUCH EACH OTHER WHEN CONNECTED TO A
BOOSTER SOURCE.
DO NOT USE OPEN FLAME NEAR BATTERY.
REMOVE METALLIC JEWELRY WORN ON
HANDS OR WRISTS TO AVOID INJURY BY ACCI-
DENTAL ARCING OF BATTERY CURRENT.
WHEN USING A HIGH OUTPUT BOOSTING
DEVICE, DO NOT ALLOW THE DISABLED VEHI-
CLE'S BATTERY TO EXCEED 16 VOLTS. PER-
SONAL INJURY OR DAMAGE TO ELECTRICAL
SYSTEM CAN RESULT.
TO PROTECT THE HANDS FROM BATTERY
ACID, A SUITABLE PAIR OF HEAVY DUTY RUB-
Fig. 1 Battery Construction
NS/GSBATTERY 8A - 1

BER GLOVES, NOT THE HOUSEHOLD TYPE,
SHOULD BE WORN WHEN REMOVING OR SER-
VICING A BATTERY. SAFETY GLASSES ALSO
SHOULD BE WORN.
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
BATTERY IGNITION OFF DRAW (IOD)
A completely normal vehicle will have a small
amount of current drain on the battery with the key
out of the ignition. It can range from 5 to 25 milli-
amperes after all the modules time out. If a vehicle
will not be operated for approximately a 20 days, the
IOD fuse should be pulled to eliminate the vehicle
electrical drain on the battery. The IOD fuse is
located in the Power Distribution Center (PDC).
Refer to the PDC cover for proper fuse.
CHARGING TIME REQUIRED
WARNING: NEVER EXCEED 20 AMPS WHEN
CHARGING A COLD -1ÉC (30ÉF) BATTERY. PER-
SONAL INJURY MAY RESULT.
The time required to charge a battery will vary
depending upon the following factors.
SIZE OF BATTERY
A completely discharged large heavy-duty battery
may require more recharging time than a completely
discharged small capacity battery, refer to (Fig. 2) for
charging times.
TEMPERATURE
A longer time will be needed to charge a battery at
-18ÉC (0ÉF) than at 27ÉC (80ÉF). When a fast charger
is connected to a cold battery, current accepted by
battery will be very low at first. In time, the battery
will accept a higher rate as battery temperature
warms.
CHARGER CAPACITY
A charger which can supply only five amperes will
require a much longer period of charging than a
charger that can supply 20 amperes or more.
STATE OF CHARGE
A completely discharged battery requires more
charging time than a partially charged battery. Elec-
trolyte is nearly pure water in a completely dis-
charged battery. At first, the charging current
amperage will be low. As water is converted back to
sulfuric acid inside the battery, the current amp rate
will rise. Also, the specific gravity of the electrolyte
will rise. The electrolyte should be tested with a
Hydrometer to check the specific gravity.
USING HYDROMETER
Before performing a hydrometer test, remove the
battery caps and check the electrolyte level. Add dis-
tilled water as required.
NOTE: Periodically disassemble the hydrometer
and wash components with soap and water. Inspect
the float for possible leaks. If the paper inside has
turned brown, the float is defective.
Before testing, visually inspect the battery for any
damage:
²Cracked container or cover
²Loose post
²Corrosion
and any other thing that would cause the battery
to be unserviceable. To interpret the hydrometer cor-
rectly, hold it with the top surface of the electrolyte
in the hydrometer at eye level.
Disregard the curvature of the liquid where the
surface rises against the float because of surface
cohesion (Fig. 3). Remove only enough electrolyte
from the battery to keep the float off the bottom of
the hydrometer barrel with pressure on the bulb
released. Keep the hydrometer in a vertical position
while drawing the electrolyte into the hydrometer
and observing the specific gravity. Exercise care
when inserting the tip of the hydrometer into a cell
to avoid damage to the separators. Damaged separa-
tors can cause premature battery failure.
Hydrometer floats are generally calibrated to indi-
cate the specific gravity correctly only at one fixed
temperature, 20ÉC (68ÉF). When testing the specific
gravity at any other temperature, a correction factor
is required, otherwise specific gravity readings will
not indicate the true state of charge.
The correction factor is approximately a specific
gravity value of 0.004, referred to as 4 points of spe-
cific gravity for every 5.5ÉC (10ÉF). If electrolyte tem-
perature is below 20ÉC (68ÉF) you subtract. If the
temperature is above 20ÉC (68ÉF) you add to the
Fig. 2 Battery Charging Time
8A - 2 BATTERYNS/GS
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)

hydrometer reading. Always correct the specific grav-
ity for temperature variation. Test the specific grav-
ity of the electrolyte in each battery cell. Refer to the
information with the Hydrometer.
Example 1:
²Hydrometer reading: 1.260
²Electrolyte temperature: -7ÉC (20ÉF)
²Subtract specific gravity: -0.019
²Correction specific gravity: 1.241
Example 2:
²Hydrometer reading: 1.225
²Electrolyte temperature: -38ÉC (100ÉF)
²Add specific gravity: +0.013
²Correction specific gravity: 1.238
A fully charged relatively new battery has a spe-
cific gravity reading of 1.285 plus 0.015 or minus
0.010.
If the specific gravity of all cells is above 1.235, but
variation between cells is more than 50 points
(0.050), it is an indication that the battery is unser-
viceable.
If the specific gravity of one or more cells is less
than 1.235, recharge the battery at a rate of approx-
imately 5 amperes. Continue charging until three
consecutive specific gravity tests, taken at one-hour
intervals, are constant.
If the cell specific gravity variation is more than 50
points (0.050) at the end of the charge period, replace
the battery.When the specific gravity of all cells is above 1.235
and variation between cells is less than 50 points
(0.050), the battery may be tested under heavy load.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
BATTERY DISCHARGING
CAUSE OF BATTERY DISCHARGING
It is normal to have a small 5 to 25 milliamperes
continuous electrical draw from the battery. This
draw will take place with the ignition in the OFF
position, and the courtesy, dome, storage compart-
ments, and engine compartment lights OFF. The con-
tinuous draw is due to various electronic features or
accessories that require electrical current with the
ignition OFF to function properly. When a vehicle is
not used over an extended period of approximately 20
days the IOD fuse should be disconnected. The fuse
is located in the power distribution center. Disconnec-
tion of this fuse will reduce the level of battery dis-
charge. Refer to Battery Diagnosis and Testing Chart
and to the proper procedures.
ABNORMAL BATTERY DISCHARGING
²Corroded battery posts, cables or terminals.
²Loose or worn generator drive belt.
²Electrical loads that exceed the output of the
charging system due to equipment or accessories
installed after delivery.
²Slow driving speeds in heavy traffic conditions
or prolonged idling with high-amperage electrical
systems in use.
²Defective electrical circuit or component causing
excess Ignition Off Draw (IOD). Refer to Battery
Ignition Off Draw (IOD).
²Defective charging system.
²Defective battery.
BATTERY IGNITION OFF DRAW
High current draw on the battery with the ignition
OFF will discharge a battery. After a dead battery is
serviced the vehicle Ignition Off Draw (IOD) should
be checked. Determine if a high current draw condi-
tion exists first check the vehicle with a test lamp.
(1) Verify that all electrical accessories are OFF.
²Remove key from ignition switch
²Turn off all lights
²Liftgate and glove box door is closed
²Sun visor vanity lights are OFF
²All doors are closed
²Allow the Illuminated Entry System to time out
in approximately 30 seconds, if equipped.
(2) Disconnect battery negative cable (Fig. 4).
Fig. 3 Battery Hydrometer
NS/GSBATTERY 8A - 3
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

CAUTION: Always disconnect the meter before
opening a door.
(3) Using an multimeter, that has least a milliam-
pere range of 200 mA. Set meter to the highest mA
range. Install meter between the battery negative
cable and battery negative post (Fig. 5). Carefully
remove the test lamp without disconnecting themeter. After all modules time-out the total vehicle
IOD should be less than 25 milliamperes. If ignition
off draw is more than 25 milliamperes go to Step 4.
(4) Each time the test lamp or milliampere meter
is disconnected and connected, all electronic timer
functions will be activated for approximately one
minute. The Body Control Module (BCM) ignition off
draw can reach 90 milliamperes.
(5) Remove the PDC fuses:
²Interior lamps
²Brake lamp
²IOD
(6) If there is any reading, with fuses removed
there is a short circuit in the wiring. Refer to Group
8W, wiring diagrams. If reading is less than 25 mA
go to Step 8.
(7) Install all fuses. After installing fuse, the cur-
rent can reach 90 mA. After time-out the reading
should not exceed 25 mA. If OK go to. If not, discon-
nect:
²Radio
BATTERY DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
STEPS POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
VISUAL INSPECTION
Check for possible damage to
battery and clean battery.(1) Corroded post(s) or terminal(s)
(2) Loose terminal(s)
(3) Loose battery post, Cracked
battery cover or case, Leaks or Any
other physical
(4) Battery OK.(1) Clean post(s) or terminal(s)
(2) Clean and tighten
(3) Replace Battery
(4) Check state of charge. Refer to
Hydrometer Test
PERFORM BATTERY
HYDROMETER TEST(1) 1.285
(2) 1.235
(3) 1.175 or a variation between
cells of 0.050 or greater(1) Battery is charged. Perform
Battery 0pen Circuit Voltage Test
(2) Perform Battery Charging
procedure.
(3) Replace Battery.
BATTERY OPEN CIRCUIT
VOLTAGE TEST(1) Battery is above 12.40 Volts
(2) Battery is below 12.40 Volts.(1) Perform the Battery Load Test.
(2) Perform Battery Charging
procedure.
BATTERY CHARGING (1) Battery accepted Charge.
(2) Battery will not accept charge(1) Pass Hydrometer Test and
perform Battery 0pen Circuit Voltage
Test
(2) Perform Charging a Completely
Discharged Battery.
BATTERY LOAD TEST (1) Acceptable minimum voltage.
(2) Unacceptable minimum voltage(1) Battery is OK to put in use,
perform Battery Ignition Off Draw
Test.
(2) Replace Battery and perform
Battery Ignition Off Draw Test.
CHARGING A COMPLETELY
DISCHARGED BATTERY(1) Battery accepted charge.
(2) Battery will not accept charge.(1) Pass Hyrometer Test and
perform Battery 0pen Circuit Voltage
Test.
(2) Replace Battery.
IGNITION OFF DRAW TEST (1) IOD is 5-25 Milliamperes.
(2) IOD Exceeds 25 Milliamperes.(1) Vehicle is normal.
(2) Eliminate excess IOD draw.
Fig. 4 Disconnect Battery Negative Cable
8A - 4 BATTERYNS/GS
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)