engine CHRYSLER VOYAGER 2003 Service Manual

Refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Man-
ual and the DRBIIItscan tool.
(1) Install PCM module to the mounting bracket.
(2) Install electrical connectors and lock.
(3) Install the splash shield.
(4) Lower vehicle.
(5) Connect the negative battery cable.
(6) Using DRBIIItscan tool, program mileage and
vehicle identification number (VIN) into PCM. Refer
to the DRBIIItscan tool and the appropriate Power-
train Diagnostic Manual.
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER
MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) con-
tains a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver and a
microprocessor. The SKIM retains in memory the ID
numbers of any Sentry Key that is programmed to it.
The maximum number of keys that may be pro-
grammed to each module is eight (8). The SKIM also
communicates over the Programmable Communica-
tion Interface (PCI) data bus with the Powertrain
Control Module (PCM), the Body Control Module
(BCM), the Mechanical Instrument Cluster (MIC),
and the DRB IIItscan tool. The SKIM transmits and
receives RF signals through a tuned antenna
enclosed within a molded plastic ring formation that
is integral to the SKIM housing. When the SKIM is
properly installed on the steering column, the
antenna ring fits snugly around the circumference of
the ignition lock cylinder housing. If this ring is not
mounted properly, communication problems may
arise in the form of transponder-related faults.
For added system security, each SKIM is pro-
grammed with a unique9Secret Key9code. This code
is stored in memory and is sent over the PCI bus to
the PCM and to each key that is programmed to
work with the vehicle. The9Secret Key9code is there-
fore a common element found in all components of
the Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS). In the
event that a SKIM replacement is required, the
9Secret Key9code can be restored from the PCM by
following the SKIM replacement procedure found in
the DRB IIItscan tool. Proper completion of this
task will allow the existing ignition keys to be repro-
grammed. Therefore, new keys will NOT be needed.
In the event that the original9Secret Key9code can
not be recovered, new ignition keys will be required.
The DRB IIItscan tool will alert the technician if
key replacement is necessary. Another security code,
called a PIN, is used to gain secured access to the
SKIM for service. The SKIM also stores in its mem-
ory the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which itlearns through a bus message from the assembly
plant tester. The SKIS scrambles the information
that is communicated between its components in
order to reduce the possibility of unauthorized SKIM
access and/or disabling.
OPERATION
When the ignition switch is moved to the RUN
position, the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM)
transmits an Radio Frequency (RF) signal to the
transponder in the ignition key. The SKIM then
waits for a response RF signal from the transponder
in the key. If the response received identifies the key
as valid, the SKIM sends a9valid key9message to
the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) over the Pro-
grammable Communication Interface (PCI) data bus.
If the response received identifies the key as invalid
or no response is received from the transponder in
the ignition key, the SKIM sends an9invalid key9
message to the PCM. The PCM will enable or disable
engine operation based upon the status of the SKIM
messages. It is important to note that the default
condition in the PCM is9invalid key.9Therefore, if no
response is received by the PCM, the engine will be
immobilized after two (2) seconds of running.
The SKIM also sends indicator light status mes-
sages to the Mechanical Instrument Cluster (MIC) to
operate the light. This is the method used to turn the
light ON solid or to flash it after the indicator light
test is complete to signify a fault in the SKIS. If the
light comes ON and stays ON solid after the indica-
tor light test, this signifies that the SKIM has
detected a system malfunction and/or that the SKIS
has become inoperative. If the SKIM detects an
invalid keyORa key-related fault exists, the indica-
tor light will flash following the indicator light test.
The SKIM may also request an audible chime if the
customer key programming feature is available and
the procedure is being utilized (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY/TRANSPON-
DER KEY - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove Lower Instrument Panel Cover. Refer
to Body, Instrument Panel, Lower Instrument Panel
Cover, Removal.
(3) Remove the steering column upper and lower
shrouds. Refer to Steering, Column, Column Shroud,
Removal.
(4) Disengage the steering column wire harness
from the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM).
(5) Remove the one screws securing the SKIM to
the steering column.
8E - 18 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESRS
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

(2) Remove the appropriate door trim panel from
the vehicle. Refer to Body for the procedure.
(3) Remove the weather shield. Refer to Body for
the procedure.
(4) Disconnect the power door control module elec-
trical connectors. Slide the red locking tab out (away
from module) and depress connector retaining tab,
while pulling straight apart.
(5) Remove the control module retaining screw
(Fig. 15).
(6) Remove the module from the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the control module and install the
retaining screw.
(2) Connect the control module electrical connec-
tors. Slide the locking tab into the locked position.
(3) Install the appropriate door trim panel on the
vehicle. Refer to Body for the procedure.
(4) Install the weather shield. Refer to Body for
the procedure.
(5) Connect the negative battery cable.
(6) Using an appropriate scan tool, check and
erase any power door control module diagnostic trou-
ble codes.
(7) Verify power door system operation. Cycle the
power door through one complete open and close
cycle.
TRANSMISSION CONTROL
MODULE
DESCRIPTION
On models equipped with the 2.4L Engine option,
the Transmission Control Module (TCM) is located
behind the left fender and is fastened with three
screws to three clips in the left frame rail forward of
the suspension (Fig. 16). Models equipped with the
3.3/3.8L Engine option utilize a Powertrain Control
Module (PCM) which incorporates TCM functionality.
OPERATION
The TCM is the controlling unit for all electronic
operations of the transaxle. The TCM receives infor-
mation regarding vehicle operation from both direct
and indirect inputs, and selects the operational mode
of the transaxle. Direct inputs are hardwired to, and
used specifically by the TCM. Indirect inputs origi-
nate from other components/modules, and are shared
with the TCM via the J1850 communication bus.
Some examples ofdirect inputsto the TCM are:
²Battery (B+) voltage
²Ignition ªONº voltage
²Transmission Control Relay (Switched B+)
²Throttle Position Sensor²Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP)
²Transmission Range Sensor (TRS)
²Pressure Switches (L/R, 2/4, OD)
²Transmission Temperature Sensor (Integral to
TRS)
²Input Shaft Speed Sensor
²Output Shaft Speed Sensor
Some examples ofindirect inputsto the TCM
are:
²Engine/Body Identification
²Manifold Pressure
²Target Idle
²Torque Reduction Confirmation
²Speed Control ON/OFF Switch
²Engine Coolant Temperature
²Ambient/Battery Temperature
²Brake Switch Status
²DRB Communication
Based on the information received from these var-
ious inputs, the TCM determines the appropriate
shift schedule and shift points, depending on the
present operating conditions and driver demand.
This is possible through the control of various direct
and indirect outputs.
Some examples of TCMdirect outputsare:
²Transmission Control Relay
²Solenoids (LR/CC, 2/4, OD and UD)
²Vehicle Speed (to PCM)
²Torque Reduction Request (to PCM)
An example of a TCMindirect outputis:
²Transmission Temperature (to PCM)
Fig. 16 Transmission Control Module (TCM)
Location
1 - TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE (TCM)
8E - 20 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESRS
SLIDING DOOR CONTROL MODULE (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

SHIFT SCHEDULES
As mentioned earlier, the TCM has programming
that allows it to select a variety of shift schedules.
Shift schedule selection is dependent on the follow-
ing:
²Shift lever position
²Throttle position²Engine load
²Fluid temperature
²Software level
As driving conditions change, the TCM appropri-
ately adjusts the shift schedule. Refer to the follow-
ing chart to determine the appropriate operation
expected, depending on driving conditions.
Schedule Condition Expected Operation
Extreme ColdOil temperature at start-up below
-16É FPark, Reverse, Neutral and 2nd
gear only (prevents shifting which
may fail a clutch with frequent
shifts)
ColdOil temperature at start-up above
-12É F and below 36É F± Delayed 2-3 upshift
(approximately 22-31 mph)
± Delayed 3-4 upshift (45-53 mph)
± Early 4-3 costdown shift
(approximately 30 mph)
± Early 3-2 coastdown shift
(approximately 17 mph)
± High speed 4-2, 3-2, 2-1 kickdown
shifts are prevented
± No EMCC
WarmOil temperature at start-up above
36É F and below 80 degree F± Normal operation (upshift,
kickdowns, and coastdowns)
± No EMCC
HotOil temperature at start-up above
80É F± Normal operation (upshift,
kickdowns, and coastdowns)
± Full EMCC, no PEMCC except to
engage FEMCC (except at closed
throttle at speeds above 70-83 mph)
OverheatOil temperature above 240É F or
engine coolant temperature above
244É F± Delayed 2-3 upshift (25-32 mph)
± Delayed 3-4 upshift (41-48 mph)
± 3rd gear FEMCC from 30-48 mph
± 3rd gear PEMCC from 27-31 mph
Super OverheatOil temperature above 260É F ± All9Overheat9shift schedule
features apply
± 2nd gear PEMCC above 22 mph
± Above 22 mph the torque
converter will not unlock unless the
throttle is closed or if a wide open
throttle 2nd PEMCC to 1 kickdown
is made
8E - 22 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESRS
TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - PINION FACTOR
SETTING
NOTE: This procedure must be performed if the
PCM/TCM has been replaced with a NEW or
replacement unit. Failure to perform this procedure
will result in an inoperative or improperly calibrated
speedometer.
The vehicle speed readings for the speedometer are
taken from the output speed sensor. The PCM/TCM
must be calibrated to the different combinations of
equipment (final drive and tires) available. Pinion
Factor allows the technician to set the Powertrain/
Transmission Control Module initial setting so that
the speedometer readings will be correct. To properly
read and/or reset the Pinion Factor, it is necessary to
use a DRBIIItscan tool.
(1) Plug the DRBIIItscan tool into the diagnostic
connector located under the instrument panel.
(2) Select the Transmission menu.
(3) Select the Miscellaneous menu.
(4) Select Pinion Factor. Then follow the instruc-
tions on the DRBIIItscan tool screen.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - QUICK LEARN
PROCEDURE
The quick learn procedure requires the use of the
DRBIIItscan tool. This program allows the PCM/
TCM to recalibrate itself. This will provide the best
possible transaxle operation.
NOTE: The quick learn procedure should be per-
formed if any of the following procedures are per-
formed:
²Transaxle Assembly Replacement
²Powertrain/Transmission Control Module
Replacement
²Solenoid/Pressure Switch Assembly Replacement
²Clutch Plate and/or Seal Replacement
²Valve Body Replacement or Recondition
To perform the Quick Learn Procedure, the follow-
ing conditions must be met:
²The brakes must be applied
²The engine speed must be above 500 rpm
²The throttle angle (TPS) must be less than 3
degrees
²The shift lever position must stay until
prompted to shift to overdrive
²The shift lever position must stay in overdrive
after the Shift to Overdrive prompt until the
DRBIIItindicates the procedure is complete²The calculated oil temperature must be above
60É and below 200É
(1) Plug the DRBIIItscan tool into the diagnostic
connector. The connector is located under the instru-
ment panel.
(2) Go to the Transmission screen.
(3) Go to the Miscellaneous screen.
(4) Select Quick Learn Procedure. Follow the
instructions of the DRBIIItto perform the Quick
Learn Procedure.
REMOVAL
NOTE: If transmission control module is being
replaced with a new or replacement unit, the Pinion
Factor and Quick Learn procedures must be per-
formed. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC
CONTROL MODULES/TRANSMISSION CONTROL
MODULE - STANDARD PROCEDURE) (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES/
TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE - STANDARD
PROCEDURE)
(1) Disconnect battery negative cable.
(2) Raise vehicle on hoist.
(3) Remove left front tire/wheel assembly.
(4) Pull back splash shield to gain access to TCM
location.
(5) Disconnect TCM 60-way connector (Fig. 18).
(6) Remove three (3) TCM-to-rail screws and
remove TCM from vehicle (Fig. 19).
Fig. 18 Transmission Control Module 60-way
Connector
1 - TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE (TCM)
2 - 60-WAY CONNECTOR
RSELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES8E-23
TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

ENGINE SYSTEMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM......................... 1
CHARGING.............................. 20STARTING............................... 28
BATTERY SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION..........................1
OPERATION............................2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
SYSTEM.............................2
CLEANING.............................5
INSPECTION...........................5
SPECIFICATIONS........................6
SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY SYSTEM SPECIAL TOOLS.......7
BATTERY
DESCRIPTION..........................7
OPERATION............................9
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY.......9
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - SPIRAL PLATE
BATTERY CHARGING..................10
STANDARD PROCEDURE -
CONVENTIONAL BATTERY CHARGING.....11
STANDARD PROCEDURE - OPEN-CIRCUIT
VOLTAGE TEST.......................13
STANDARD PROCEDURE - IGNITION-OFF
DRAW TEST.........................13
STANDARD PROCEDURE - CHECKING
BATTERY ELECTROLYTE LEVEL.........14REMOVAL - BATTERY...................15
INSTALLATION.........................15
BATTERY HOLDDOWN
DESCRIPTION.........................15
OPERATION...........................15
REMOVAL.............................16
INSTALLATION.........................16
BATTERY CABLES
DESCRIPTION.........................16
OPERATION...........................16
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY CABLE . 16
REMOVAL.............................18
INSTALLATION.........................18
BATTERY TRAY
DESCRIPTION.........................18
OPERATION...........................19
REMOVAL.............................19
INSTALLATION.........................19
THERMOWRAP
DESCRIPTION.........................19
OPERATION...........................19
REMOVAL.............................19
INSTALLATION.........................19
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
A single 12-volt battery is standard factory-in-
stalled equipment on this model. All of the compo-
nents of the battery system are located within the
engine compartment of the vehicle. The battery sys-
tem for this vehicle covers the following related com-ponents, which are covered in further detail later in
this section of the service manual:
²Battery- The storage battery provides a reli-
able means of storing a renewable source of electrical
energy within the vehicle.
²Battery Cable- The battery cables connect the
battery terminal posts to the vehicle electrical sys-
tem.
RSENGINE SYSTEMS8F-1
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²Battery Holddown- The battery holddown
hardware secures the battery in the battery tray in
the engine compartment.
²Battery Thermowrap- The battery thermow-
rap insulates the battery to protect it from engine
compartment temperature extremes.
²Battery Tray- The battery tray provides a
secure mounting location in the vehicle for the bat-
tery and an anchor point for the battery holddown
hardware.
For battery system maintenance schedules and
jump starting procedure, see the owner's manual in
the vehicle glove box. Optionally, refer to the Lubri-
cation and Maintenance section of this manual for
the recommended battery maintenance schedules and
for the proper battery jump starting procedure. While
battery charging can be considered a maintenance
procedure, the battery charging procedure and
related information are located later in this section of
this service manual. This was done because the bat-
tery must be fully-charged before any battery system
diagnosis or testing procedures can be performed.
OPERATION
The battery system is designed to provide a safe,
efficient, reliable and mobile means of delivering and
storing electrical energy. This electrical energy is
required to operate the engine starting system, as
well as to operate many of the other vehicle acces-
sory systems for limited durations while the engine
and/or the charging system are not operating. The
battery system is also designed to provide a reserve
of electrical energy to supplement the charging sys-
tem for short durations while the engine is running
and the electrical current demands of the vehicle
exceed the output of the charging system. In addition
to delivering, and storing electrical energy for the
vehicle, the battery system serves as a capacitor and
voltage stabilizer for the vehicle electrical system. It
absorbs most abnormal or transient voltages caused
by the switching of any of the electrical components
or circuits in the vehicle.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY SYSTEM
The battery, starting, and charging systems in the
vehicle operate with one another and must be tested
as a complete system. In order for the engine to start
and the battery to maintain its charge properly, all of
the components that are used in these systems must
perform within specifications. It is important that
the battery, starting, and charging systems be thor-
oughly tested and inspected any time a battery needs
to be charged or replaced. The cause of abnormal bat-
tery discharge, overcharging or early battery failure
must be diagnosed and corrected before a battery is
replaced and before a vehicle is returned to service.
The service information for these systems has been
separated within this service manual to make it eas-
ier to locate the specific information you are seeking.
However, when attempting to diagnose any of these
systems, it is important that you keep their interde-
pendency in mind.
The diagnostic procedures used for the battery,
starting, and charging systems include the most
basic conventional diagnostic methods, to the more
sophisticated On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) built into
the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Use of an
induction-type milliampere ammeter, a volt/ohmme-
ter, a battery charger, a carbon pile rheostat (load
tester) and a 12-volt test lamp may be required. All
OBD-sensed systems are monitored by the PCM.
Each monitored circuit is assigned a Diagnostic Trou-
ble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a DTC in elec-
tronic memory for any failure it detects. Refer to
Charging System for the proper charging system on-
board diagnostic test procedures.
MICRO 420 BATTERY TESTER
The Micro 420 automotive battery system tester is
designed to help the dealership technicians diagnose
the cause of a defective battery. Follow the instruc-
tion manual supplied with the tester to properly
diagnose a vehicle. If the instruction manual is not
available refer to the standard procedure in this sec-
tion, which includes the directions for using the
Micro 420 battery tester.
8F - 2 BATTERY SYSTEMRS
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

BATTERY SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
THE BATTERY SEEMS
WEAK OR DEAD WHEN
ATTEMPTING TO START
THE ENGINE.1. The electrical system
ignition-off draw is excessive.1. Refer to the IGNITION-OFF DRAW TEST
Standard Procedure for the proper test
procedures. Repair the excessive ignition-off
draw, as required.
2. The charging system is
faulty.2. Determine if the charging system is performing
to specifications. Refer to Charging System for
additional charging system diagnosis and testing
procedures. Repair the faulty charging system, as
required.
3. The battery is discharged. 3. Determine the battery state-of-charge using the
Micro 420 battery tester. Refer to the Standard
Procedures in this section for additional test
procedures. Charge the faulty battery, as
required.
4. The battery terminal
connections are loose or
corroded.4. Refer to Battery Cables for the proper battery
cable diagnosis and testing procedures. Clean
and tighten the battery terminal connections, as
required.
5. The battery has an
incorrect size or rating for
this vehicle.5. Refer to Battery System Specifications for the
proper size and rating. Replace an incorrect
battery, as required.
6. The battery is faulty. 6. Test the battery using the Micro 420 battery
tester. Refer to the Standard Procedures in this
section for additional test procedures. Replace
the faulty battery, as required.
7. The starting system is
faulty.7. Determine if the starting system is performing
to specifications. Refer to Starting System for the
proper starting system diagnosis and testing
procedures. Repair the faulty starting system, as
required.
8. The battery is physically
damaged.8. Inspect the battery for loose terminal posts or a
cracked and leaking case. Replace the damaged
battery, as required.
RSBATTERY SYSTEM8F-3
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

(4) Inspect the battery thermowrap for tears,
cracks, deformation or other damage. Replace any
battery thermal guard that has been damaged.
(5) Inspect the battery built-in test indicator sight
glass(if equipped) for an indication of the battery con-
dition. If the battery is discharged, charge as
required. Refer to Standard Procedures for the
proper battery built-in indicator test procedures. Also
refer to Standard Procedures for the proper battery
charging procedures.
SPECIFICATIONS
The battery Group Size number, the Cold Cranking
Amperage (CCA) rating, and the Reserve Capacity
(RC) rating or Ampere-Hours (AH) rating can be
found on the original equipment battery label. Be
certain that a replacement battery has the correct
Group Size number, as well as CCA, and RC or AH
ratings that equal or exceed the original equipment
specification for the vehicle being serviced. Battery
sizes and ratings are discussed in more detail below.
²Group Size- The outside dimensions and ter-
minal placement of the battery conform to standards
established by the Battery Council International
(BCI). Each battery is assigned a BCI Group Size
number to help identify a correctly-sized replace-
ment.
²Cold Cranking Amperage- The Cold Crank-
ing Amperage (CCA) rating specifies how much cur-
rent (in amperes) the battery can deliver for thirty
seconds at -18É C (0É F). Terminal voltage must not
fall below 7.2 volts during or after the thirty second
discharge period. The CCA required is generally
higher as engine displacement increases, depending
also upon the starter current draw requirements.
²Reserve Capacity- The Reserve Capacity (RC)
rating specifies the time (in minutes) it takes for bat-
tery terminal voltage to fall below 10.5 volts, at a
discharge rate of 25 amperes. RC is determined with
the battery fully-charged at 26.7É C (80É F). This rat-
ing estimates how long the battery might last after a
charging system failure, under minimum electrical
load.
²Ampere-Hours- The Ampere-Hours (AH) rat-
ing specifies the current (in amperes) that a battery
can deliver steadily for twenty hours, with the volt-
age in the battery not falling below 10.5 volts. This
rating is also sometimes identified as the twenty-
hour discharge rating.
BATTERY CLASSIFICATIONS & RATINGS
Part NumberBCI Group Size
ClassificationCold Cranking
AmperageReserve
CapacityAmpere -
HoursLoad Test
Amperage
4686158AD 34 500 110 Minutes 60 250
4727159AD 34 600 120 Minutes 66 300
4727242AD DIN H6 600 120 Minutes 66 300
4868999AA 34 700 95 Minutes 50 350
Fig. 3 Clean Battery Terminal Post - Typical
1 - TERMINAL BRUSH
2 - BATTERY CABLE
3 - BATTERY
8F - 6 BATTERY SYSTEMRS
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY SYSTEM SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY
DESCRIPTION
There are three different batteries available on this
model. Vehicles equipped with a diesel engine utilize
a spiral wound plate designed battery with recombi-
nation technology. This is a maintenance-free battery
that is capable of delivering more power than a con-
ventional battery. This additional power is required
by a diesel engine during cold cranking. Vehicles
equipped with a gasoline engine utilize a conven-
tional battery. Refer to the following information for
detailed differences and descriptions of these batter-
ies.
SPIRAL PLATE BATTERY - DIESEL ENGINE
Spiral plate technology takes the elements of tradi-
tional batteries - lead and sulfuric acid - to the next
level. By tightly winding layers of spiral grids and
acid-permeated vitreous separators into cells, the
manufacturer has developed a battery with more
power and service life than conventional batteries the
same size. The spiral plate battery is completely, per-
manently sealed. Through gas recombination, hydro-
gen and oxygen within the battery are captured
during normal charging and reunited to form the
water within the electrolyte, eliminating the need to
add distilled water. Therefore, these batteries havenon-removable battery vent caps (Fig. 4). Watercan-
notbe added to this battery.
The acid inside a spiral plate battery is bound
within the vitreous separators, ending the threat of
acid leaks. This feature allows the battery to be
installed in any position anywhere in the vehicle.
Spiral plate technology is the process by which the
plates holding the active material in the battery are
wound tightly in coils instead of hanging flat, like
conventional batteries. This design has a lower inter-
nal resistance and also increases the active material
surface area.
WARNING: NEVER EXCEED 14.4 VOLTS WHEN
CHARGING A SPIRAL PLATE BATTERY. PERSONAL
INJURY AND/OR BATTERY DAMAGE MAY RESULT.
Due to the maintanance-free design, distilled water
cannot be added to this battery. Therefore, if more
than 14.4 volts are used during the spiral plate bat-
tery charging process, water vapor can be exhausted
through the pressure-sensitive battery vents and lost
for good. This can permanently damage the spiral
plate battery. Never exceed 14.4 volts when charging
a spiral plate battery. Personal injury and/or battery
damage may result.
CONVENTIONAL BATTERY - GASOLINE ENGINE
Low-maintenance batteriesare used on export
vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine, these bat-
teries have removable battery cell caps (Fig. 5).
Watercanbe added to this battery. Under normal
MICRO 420 BATTERY TESTER
Fig. 4 MAINTENANCE-FREE DIESEL ENGINE
BATTERY
RSBATTERY SYSTEM8F-7
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

service, the composition of this battery reduces gas-
sing and water loss at normal charge rates. However
these batteries may require additional distilled water
after years of service.
Maintenance-free batteriesare standard facto-
ry-installed equipment on all domestic versions of
this model. Male post type terminals made of a soft
lead material protrude from the top of the molded
plastic battery case (Fig. 6)to provide the means for
connecting the battery to the vehicle electrical sys-
tem. The battery positive terminal post is visibly
larger in diameter than the negative terminal post,
for easy identification. The lettersPOSandNEGare
also molded into the top of the battery case adjacent
to their respective positive and negative terminal
posts for additional identification confirmation.
This battery is designed to provide a safe, efficient
and reliable means of storing electrical energy in a
chemical form. This means of energy storage allows
the battery to produce the electrical energy required
to operate the engine starting system, as well as to
operate many of the other vehicle accessory systems
for limited durations while the engine and/or the
charging system are not operating. The battery is
made up of six individual cells that are connected in
series. Each cell contains positively charged plate
groups that are connected with lead straps to the
positive terminal post, and negatively charged plate
groups that are connected with lead straps to thenegative terminal post. Each plate consists of a stiff
mesh framework or grid coated with lead dioxide
(positive plate) or sponge lead (negative plate). Insu-
lators or plate separators made of a non-conductive
material are inserted between the positive and nega-
tive plates to prevent them from contacting or short-
ing against one another. These dissimilar metal
plates are submerged in a sulfuric acid and water
solution called an electrolyte.
Some factory-installed batteries have a built-in test
indicator (hydrometer). The color visible in the sight
glass of the indicator will reveal the battery condi-
tion. For more information on the use of the built-in
test indicator, refer toStandard Procedures. The
chemical composition of the metal coated plates
within the low-maintenance battery used in export
models reduces battery gassing and water loss at
normal charge and discharge rates. Therefore, the
battery should not require additional water in nor-
mal service. If the electrolyte level in this battery
does become low, distilled water must be added. How-
ever, rapid loss of electrolyte can be caused by an
overcharging condition. Be certain to diagnose the
charging system after replenishing the water in the
battery for a low electrolyte condition and before
returning the vehicle to service. Refer toCharging
Systemfor additional information.
The battery Group Size number, the Cold Cranking
Amperage (CCA) rating, and the Reserve Capacity
(RC) rating or Ampere-Hours (AH) rating can be
Fig. 5 BATTERY CELL CAP REMOVAL/
INSTALLATION - LOW-MAINTANANCE GASOLINE
ENGINE BATTERY - EXPORT
1 - BATTERY CELL CAP
2 - BATTERY CASE
Fig. 6 Maintenance-Free Battery - Domestic
1 - POSITIVE POST
2 - VENT
3 - CELL CAP
4 - VENT
5 - CELL CAP
6 - VENT
7 - NEGATIVE POST
8 - INDICATOR EYE (if equipped)
9 - ELECTROLYTE LEVEL
10 - PLATE GROUPS
11 - MAINTENANCE-FREE BATTERY
8F - 8 BATTERY SYSTEMRS
BATTERY (Continued)
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