Starter JEEP CHEROKEE 1994 Service Repair Manual

Above that temperature range the viscosity will de-
crease, and below that range the viscosity will in-
crease.
An engine oil with an SAE 5W-30 viscosity grade
provides good flow capability for fast cold weather
engine starts. The viscosity will then increase with
engine temperature to provide good high-tempera-
ture engine lubrication.
API SERVICE GRADE
The API Service Grade specifies the type of engine/
operating conditions for which the oil is intended.
The API Service Grade specifications also apply to
energy conserving engine oils (Fig. 3). The API cer-
tification mark is also used indicating that the oil is
certified to meet the most critical requirements es-
tablished by the manufacturer (Fig. 4).
For maximum protection, use API Service Grade
SG, SG/CD or SG/CE engine oil in Jeeptengines.
GEAR LUBRICANTS
A dual SAE viscosity grade is also used to specify
the viscosity of multipurpose gear lubricants.
The API lubrication quality grade designation
identifies gear lubricants in terms of recommended
usage.
CHASSIS COMPONENT AND WHEEL BEARING
LUBRICANTS
The chassis component and wheel bearing lubri-
cants are identified by the NLGI Certification Sym-
bol (Fig. 5).
The letterGindicates wheel bearing lubricant and
the letterLindicates chassis lubricant. When the
letters are combined the lubricant can be used for
dual applications. The suffix lettersCandBindi-
cates quality level of the lubricant. Use only lubri-
cants that display the NLGI Certification Symbol.
RECOMMENDED LUBRICANT AND REPLACEMENT
PARTS
Jeeptvehicles are engineered to provide many
years of dependable operation. When necessary,MO-
PAR brand lubricants and genuine replacement
partsare highly recommended.
COMPONENTS REQUIRING NO LUBRICATION
There are many components that should not be lu-
bricated. The components that shouldnotbe lubri-
cated are:
²air pumps;
²generator bearings;
²drive belts;
²drive belt idler pulleys;
²rubber bushings;
²starter motor bearings;
²suspension strut bearings;
²throttle control cables;
²throttle linkage ball joints; and
²water pump bearings.
Fig. 4 The API Engine Oil Certification Mark
Fig. 5 NLGI Lubricant Certification/Identification
Symbol
JLUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE 0 - 3

MULTI-PORT FUEL INJECTION (MFI)ÐCOMPONENT DESCRIPTION/SYSTEM
OPERATION
INDEX
page page
Air Conditioning (A/C) Clutch RelayÐPCM Output.24
Air Conditioning (A/C) ControlsÐPCM Input.... 19
Auto Shut Down (ASD) RelayÐPCM Output.... 24
Automatic Shut Down (ASD) SenseÐPCM Input . 19
Battery VoltageÐPCM Input................ 19
Brake SwitchÐPCM Input.................. 20
Camshaft Position SensorÐPCM Input........ 20
Crankshaft Position SensorÐPCM Input....... 20
Data Link ConnectorÐPCM Input............ 20
Data Link ConnectorÐPCM Output........... 24
EMR LampÐPCM Output.................. 24
Engine Coolant Temperature SensorÐPCM Input . 21
Extended Idle SwitchÐPCM Input............ 21
Fuel InjectorsÐPCM Output................ 25
Fuel Pressure Regulator................... 30
Fuel Pump RelayÐPCM Output............. 25
Fuel Rail............................... 30
General Information....................... 17
Generator FieldÐPCM Output............... 25
Generator LampÐPCM Output.............. 25
Idle Air Control (IAC) MotorÐPCM Output...... 25
Ignition Circuit SenseÐPCM Input............ 21
Ignition CoilÐPCM Output.................. 26Intake Air Temperature SensorÐPCM Input.... 20
Malfunction Indicator LampÐPCM Output...... 26
Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) SensorÐ
PCM Input............................ 21
Open Loop/Closed Loop Modes of Operation . . . 27
Overdrive/Override Switch.................. 22
Oxygen (O2S) SensorÐPCM Input........... 22
Park/Neutral SwitchÐPCM Input............. 22
Power Ground........................... 22
Power Steering Pressure SwitchÐPCM Input . . . 22
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)............ 18
Radiator Fan RelayÐPCM Output............ 26
SCI ReceiveÐPCM Input.................. 22
SCI TransmitÐPCM Output................. 26
Sensor ReturnÐPCM Input................. 23
Shift IndicatorÐPCM Output................ 26
Speed ControlÐPCM Input................. 23
Speed ControlÐPCM Output................ 27
TachometerÐPCM Output.................. 27
Throttle Body............................ 29
Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)ÐPCM Input..... 23
Torque Converter Clutch RelayÐPCM Output . . . 27
Vehicle Speed SensorÐPCM Input........... 23
GENERAL INFORMATION
All 2.5L 4 cylinder and 4.0L 6 cylinder engines are
equipped with sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection
(MFI). The MFI system provides precise air/fuel ra-
tios for all driving conditions.
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) operates
the fuel system. The PCM was formerly referred to
as the SBEC or engine controller. The PCM is a pre-
programmed, dual microprocessor digital computer.
It regulates ignition timing, air-fuel ratio, emission
control devices, charging system, speed control, air
conditioning compressor clutch engagement and idle
speed. The PCM can adapt its programming to meet
changing operating conditions.
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Inputsrep-
resent the instantaneous engine operating conditions.
Air-fuel mixture and ignition timing calibrations for
various driving and atmospheric conditions are pre-
programmed into the PCM. The PCM monitors and
analyzes various inputs. It then computes engine fuel
and ignition timing requirements based on these in-
puts. Fuel delivery control and ignition timing will
then be adjusted accordingly.
Other inputs to the PCM are provided by the brake
light switch, air conditioning select switch and the
speed control switches. All inputs to the PCM are
converted into signals.
Electrically operated fuel injectors spray fuel in
precise metered amounts into the intake port directlyabove the intake valve. The injectors are fired in a
specific sequence by the PCM. The PCM maintains
an air/fuel ratio of 14.7 to 1 by constantly adjusting
injector pulse width. Injector pulse width is the
length of time that the injector opens and sprays fuel
into the chamber. The PCM adjusts injector pulse
width by opening and closing the ground path to the
injector.
Manifold absolute pressure (air density) and engine
rpm (speed) are the primary inputs that determine
fuel injector pulse width. The PCM also monitors
other inputs when adjusting air-fuel ratio.
Inputs That Effect Fuel Injector Pulse Width
²Exhaust gas oxygen content
²Engine coolant temperature
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP)
²Engine speed
²Throttle position
²Battery voltage
²Air conditioning selection
²Transmission gear selection (automatic transmis-
sions only)
²Speed control
The powertrain control module (PCM) adjusts igni-
tion timing by controlling ignition coil operation. The
ignition coil receives battery voltage when the igni-
tion key is in the run or starter position. The PCM
provides a ground for the ignition coil. The coil dis-
JFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 17

²Intake manifold air temperature sensor input is
monitored
²Throttle position sensor (TPS) is monitored
²The auto shut down (ASD) relay is energized by
the PCM for approximately three seconds.
²The fuel pump is energized through the fuel pump
relay by the PCM. The fuel pump will operate for ap-
proximately one second unless the engine is operat-
ing or the starter motor is engaged
²The O2S sensor heater element is energized
through the fuel pump relay. The O2S sensor input
is not used by the PCM to calibrate air-fuel ratio
during this mode of operation.
²The up-shift indicator light is illuminated (manual
transmission only).
ENGINE START-UP MODE
This is an Open Loop mode. The following actions
occur when the starter motor is engaged.
The powertrain control module (PCM) receives in-
puts from:
²Battery voltage
²Engine coolant temperature sensor
²Crankshaft position sensor
²Intake manifold air temperature sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
²Throttle position sensor (TPS)
²Starter motor relay
²Camshaft position sensor signal
The PCM monitors the crankshaft position sensor.
If the PCM does not receive a crankshaft position
sensor signal within 3 seconds of cranking the en-
gine, it will shut down the fuel injection system.
The fuel pump is activated by the PCM through
the fuel pump relay.
Voltage is applied to the fuel injectors with the
PCM. The PCM will then control the injection se-
quence and injector pulse width by turning the
ground circuit to each individual injector on and off.
The PCM determines the proper ignition timing ac-
cording to input received from the crankshaft posi-
tion sensor.
ENGINE WARM-UP MODE
This is an Open Loop mode. During engine warm-
up, the powertrain control module (PCM) receives in-
puts from:
²Battery voltage
²Crankshaft position sensor
²Engine coolant temperature sensor
²Intake manifold air temperature sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
²Throttle position sensor (TPS)
²Camshaft position sensor signal (in the distributor)
²Park/Neutral Switch (Gear indicator signalÐauto.
trans. only)
²Air conditioning select signal (if equipped)
²Air conditioning request signal (if equipped)Based on these inputs the following occurs:
²Voltage is applied to the fuel injectors with the
powertrain control module (PCM). The PCM will
then control the injection sequence and injector pulse
width by turning the ground circuit to each individ-
ual injector on and off.
²The PCM adjusts engine idle speed through the
idle air control (IAC) motor and adjusts ignition tim-
ing.
²The PCM operates the A/C compressor clutch
through the clutch relay. This is done if A/C has
been selected by the vehicle operator and requested
by the A/C thermostat.
²If the vehicle has a manual transmission, the up-
shift light is operated by the PCM.
²When engine has reached operating temperature,
the PCM will begin monitoring O2S sensor input.
The system will then leave the warm-up mode and
go into closed loop operation.
IDLE MODE
When the engine is at operating temperature, this
is a Closed Loop mode. At idle speed, the powertrain
control module (PCM) receives inputs from:
²Air conditioning select signal (if equipped)
²Air conditioning request signal (if equipped)
²Battery voltage
²Crankshaft position sensor
²Engine coolant temperature sensor
²Intake manifold air temperature sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
²Throttle position sensor (TPS)
²Camshaft position sensor signal (in the distributor)
²Battery voltage
²Park/Neutral Switch (gear indicator signalÐauto.
trans. only)
²Oxygen sensor
Based on these inputs, the following occurs:
²Voltage is applied to the fuel injectors with the
powertrain control module (PCM). The PCM will
then control injection sequence and injector pulse
width by turning the ground circuit to each individ-
ual injector on and off.
²The PCM monitors the O2S sensor input and ad-
justs air-fuel ratio by varying injector pulse width. It
also adjusts engine idle speed through the idle air
control (IAC) motor.
²The PCM adjusts ignition timing by increasing
and decreasing spark advance.
²The PCM operates the A/C compressor clutch
through the clutch relay. This happens if A/C has
been selected by the vehicle operator and requested
by the A/C thermostat.
The optional Extended Idle Switch is used to raise
the engine idle speed to approximately 1000 rpm.
This is when the shifter is in either the Park or Neu-
tral position. A rocker-type 2-wire switch (extended
idle switch) is mounted to the instrument panel. This
14 - 28 FUEL SYSTEMJ

MULTI-PORT FUEL INJECTION (MFI)ÐGENERAL DIAGNOSIS
INDEX
page page
Automatic Shutdown (ASD) Relay Testing...... 43
Camshaft Position Sensor Test.............. 43
Crankshaft Position Sensor Test............. 44
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).............. 51
DRB Scan Tool.......................... 51
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Test...... 43
Extended Idle Switch Test.................. 45
Fuel Pump Relay Testing.................. 44
Fuel System Pressure Test................. 48
General Information....................... 32
Idle Air Control Motor Test................. 46
Injector Test............................ 48
Intake Air Temperature Sensor Test.......... 43Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor Test . 44
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD)................ 48
Oxygen Sensor (O2S) Heating Element Test.... 45
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 60-Way
Connector............................ 38
RelaysÐOperation/Testing.................. 47
Starter Motor Relay Test................... 48
System Schematics....................... 38
Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Test.......... 45
Torque Converter Clutch Relay Test.......... 45
Vehicle Speed Sensor Test................. 45
Visual Inspection......................... 32
GENERAL INFORMATION
All 2.5L 4 cylinder and 4.0L 6 cylinder engines are
equipped with sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection
(MFI). The MFI system provides precise air/fuel ra-
tios for all driving conditions.
VISUAL INSPECTION
A visual inspection for loose, disconnected, or incor-
rectly routed wires and hoses should be made. This
should be done before attempting to diagnose or ser-
vice the fuel injection system. A visual check will
help spot these faults and save unnecessary test and
diagnostic time. A thorough visual inspection will in-
clude the following checks:
(1) Verify that the 60-way connector is fully inserted
into the connector of the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) (Figs. 1 or 2). Verify that the connector mount-
ing bolt is tightened to 4 Nzm (35 in. lbs.) torque.
(2) Inspect the battery cable connections. Be sure
they are clean and tight.
(3) Inspect fuel pump relay and air conditioning com-
pressor clutch relay (if equipped). Inspect ASD relay andradiator fan relay (if equipped) connections. Inspect starter
motor relay connections. Inspect relays for signs of physical
damage and corrosion. The relays are installed in the
Power Distribution Center (PDC) (Figs. 3 or 4).
Fig. 1 PCMÐYJ Models
Fig. 2 PCMÐXJ Models
Fig. 3 PDCÐYJ Models
14 - 32 FUEL SYSTEMJ

(29) Verify that fuel pump module wire connector
is firmly connected to harness connector.
(30) Inspect fuel hoses at fuel pump module for
cracks or leaks (Fig. 28).
(31) Inspect transmission torque convertor housing
(automatic transmission) or clutch housing (manual
transmission) for damage to timing ring on drive
plate/flywheel.
(32) Verify that battery cable and solenoid feed
wire connections to the starter solenoid are tight and
clean. Inspect for chaffed wires or wires rubbing up
against other components (Fig. 29).
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) 60-WAY
CONNECTOR
For PCM 60-way connector wiring schematics, re-
fer to Group 8W, Wiring Diagrams.
SYSTEM SCHEMATICS
Fuel system schematics for the 2.5L 4 cylinder and
4.0L 6 cylinder engines are shown in figures 30, 31,
32 and 33.
Fig. 28 Fuel Pump Module Connector and Fuel HosesÐTypical
Fig. 29 Starter Solenoid ConnectionsÐTypical
14 - 38 FUEL SYSTEMJ

87 and 30. Continuity should not be present between
terminals number 87A and 30.
(8) Disconnect jumper wires from relay and 12
Volt power source.
If continuity or resistance tests did not pass, re-
place relay. If tests passed, refer to Group 8W, Wir-
ing Diagrams for additional circuit information. Also
refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Proce-
dures manual for operation of the DRB scan tool.
STARTER MOTOR RELAY TEST
Refer to Group 8A, Battery/Starting/Charging/Sys-
tem Diagnostics, for starter motor relay testing.
INJECTOR TEST
Disconnect the injector wire connector from the in-
jector. Place an ohmmeter on the injector terminals.
Resistance reading should be approximately 14.5
ohms61.2 ohms at 20ÉC (68ÉF). Proceed to following
Injector Diagnosis chart.
FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE TEST
Refer to the Fuel Delivery System section of this
group. See Fuel System Pressure Test.
ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTICS (OBD)
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has been
programmed to monitor many different circuits of the
fuel injection system. If a problem is sensed in a
monitored circuit often enough to indicate an actual
problem, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored.
The DTC will be stored in the PCM memory for
eventual display to the service technician. If the
problem is repaired or ceases to exist, the PCM can-
cels the DTC after 51 engine starts.
Certain criteria must be met for a diagnostic trou-
ble code (DTC) to be entered into PCM memory. The
criteria may be a specific range of engine rpm, en-
gine temperature and/or input voltage to the PCM.
It is possible that a DTC for a monitored circuit
may not be entered into memory even though a mal-
function has occurred. This may happen because one
of the DTC criteria for the circuit has not been met.
Example: assume that one of the criteria for the
MAP sensor circuit is that the engine must be oper-
ating between 750 and 2000 rpm to be monitored for
a DTC. If the MAP sensor output circuit shorts to
ground when the engine rpm is above 2400 rpm, a 0
volt input will be seen by the PCM. A DTC will not
be entered into memory because the condition does
not occur within the specified rpm range.
A DTC indicates that the powertrain control mod-
ule (PCM) has recognized an abnormal signal in a
circuit or the system. A DTC may indicate the result
of a failure, but never identify the failed component
directly.There are several operating conditions that the
PCM does not monitor and set a DTC for. Refer to
the following Monitored Circuits and Non-Monitored
Circuits in this section.
MONITORED CIRCUITS
The powertrain control module (PCM) can detect
certain problems in the fuel injection system.
Open or Shorted Circuit- The PCM can deter-
mine if sensor output (which is the input to PCM) is
within proper range. It also determines if the circuit
is open or shorted.
Output Device Current Flow- The PCM senses
whether the output devices are hooked up.
If there is a problem with the circuit, the PCM
senses whether the circuit is open, shorted to ground
(-), or shorted to (+) voltage.
Oxygen Sensor- The PCM can determine if the
oxygen sensor is switching between rich and lean.
This is, once the system has entered Closed Loop. Re-
fer to Open Loop/Closed Loop Modes Of Operation in
the Component Description/System Operation section
for an explanation of Closed (or Open) Loop opera-
tion.
NON-MONITORED CIRCUITS
The PCM does not monitor the following circuits,
systems or conditions that could have malfunctions
that result in driveability problems. A Diagnostic
Trouble Code (DTC) may not be displayed for these
conditions.
Fuel Pressure: Fuel pressure is controlled by the
vacuum assisted fuel pressure regulator. The PCM
cannot detect a clogged fuel pump inlet filter, clogged
in-line fuel filter, or a pinched fuel supply or return
line. However, these could result in a rich or lean
condition causing an oxygen sensor DTC to be stored
in the PCM.
Secondary Ignition Circuit: The PCM cannot
detect an inoperative ignition coil, fouled or worn
spark plugs, ignition cross firing, or open circuited
spark plug cables.
Engine Timing: The PCM cannot detect an incor-
rectly indexed timing chain, camshaft sprocket or
crankshaft sprocket. The PCM also cannot detect an
incorrectly indexed distributor. However, these could
result in a rich or lean condition causing an oxygen
sensor DTC to be stored in the PCM.
Cylinder Compression: The PCM cannot detect
uneven, low, or high engine cylinder compression.
Exhaust System: The PCM cannot detect a
plugged, restricted or leaking exhaust system.
Fuel Injector Malfunctions: The PCM cannot de-
termine if the fuel injector is clogged, or the wrong
injector is installed. However, these could result in a
rich or lean condition causing an oxygen sensor DTC
to be stored in the PCM.
14 - 48 FUEL SYSTEMJ

Check flywheel runout if misalignment is sus-
pected. Runout should not exceed 0.08 mm (0.003
in.). Measure runout at the outer edge of the fly-
wheel face with a dial indicator. Mount the dial indi-
cator on a stud installed in place of one of the
flywheel attaching bolts.
Clean the crankshaft flange before mounting the
flywheel. Dirt and grease on the flange surface may
cock the flywheel causing excessive runout.
Check condition of the flywheel hub and attaching
bolts. Replace the flywheel if the hub exhibits cracks
in the area of the attaching bolt holes.
Install new attaching bolts whenever the flywheel
is replaced and use Mopar Lock N' Seal, or Loctite
242 on the replacement bolt threads.
Recommended flywheel bolt torques are:
²142 Nzm (105 ft. lbs.) for 6-cylinder flywheels
²68 Nzm (50 ft. lbs.) plus an additional turn of 60É
for 4-cylinder flywheels
Inspect the teeth on the starter ring gear.If the
teeth are worn or damaged, the flywheel should
be replaced as an assembly. This is the recom-
mended and preferred method of repair.
In cases where a new flywheel is not readily avail-
able, a replacement ring gear can be installed. How-
ever, the following precautions must be observed to
avoid damaging the flywheel and replacement gear.
(a) Mark position of the old gear for alignment
reference on the flywheel. Use a scriber for this
purpose.
(b) Wear protective goggles or approved safety
glasses. Also wear heat resistent gloves when han-
dling a heated ring gear.
(c) Remove the old gear by cutting most of the
way through it (at one point) with an abrasive cut-
off wheel. Then complete removal with a cold chisel
or punch.(d) The ring gear is a shrink fit on the flywheel.
This means the gear must be expanded by heating
in order to install it.The method of heating and
expanding the gear is extremely important.
Every surface of the gear must be heated at the
same time to produce uniform expansion. An oven
or similar enclosed heating device must be used.
Temperature required for uniform expansion is ap-
proximately 375É F.
CAUTION: Do not use an oxy/acetylene torch to re-
move the old gear, or to heat and expand a new
gear. The high temperature of the torch flame can
cause localized heating that will damage the fly-
wheel. In addition, using the torch to heat a replace-
ment gear will cause uneven heating and
expansion. The torch flame can also anneal the
gear teeth resulting in rapid wear and damage after
installation.
(e) The heated gear must be installed evenly to
avoid misalignment or distortion. A shop press and
suitable press plates should be used to install the
gear if at all possible.
(f) Be sure to wear eye and hand protection.
Heat resistent gloves and safety goggles are needed
for personal safety. Also use metal tongs, vise grips,
or similar tools to position the gear as necessary
for installation.
(g) Allow the flywheel and ring gear to cool down
before installation. Set the assembly on a work-
bench and let it cool in normal shop air.
CAUTION: Do not use water, or compressed air to
cool the flywheel. The rapid cooling produced by
water or compressed air can distort, or crack the
gear and flywheel.
6 - 16 CLUTCH SERVICEJ

ELECTRICAL
GROUP INDEX
Group Group
AUDIO SYSTEMS....................... 8F
BATTERY/STARTER/GENERATOR SERVICE . . 8B
BATTERY/STARTING/CHARGING SYSTEMS
DIAGNOSTICS........................ 8A
CHIME/WARNING BUZZER SYSTEM....... 8U
HORNS............................... 8G
IGNITION SYSTEMS.................... 8D
INSTRUMENT PANEL AND GAUGES........ 8E
LAMPS............................... 8L
OVERHEAD CONSOLE................... 8CPOWER LOCKS........................ 8P
POWER MIRRORS...................... 8T
POWER SEAT.......................... 8R
POWER WINDOWS..................... 8S
REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER.............. 8N
TURN SIGNALS AND HAZARD WARNING
FLASHERS........................... 8J
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM....... 8H
WINDSHIELD WIPERS AND WASHERS..... 8K
WIRING DIAGRAMS.................... 8W
BATTERY/STARTING/CHARGING SYSTEMS DIAGNOSTICS
CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY TEST PROCEDURES............. 2
ENGINE STARTER MOTOR TEST
PROCEDURES ON VEHICLE.............. 9GENERATOR TEST PROCEDURES ON
VEHICLE............................. 14
IGNITION OFF DRAW (IOD) DIAGNOSIS...... 8
USING ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM.... 19
GENERAL INFORMATION
The battery, starting, and charging systems oper-
ate with one another, and therefore, must be thor-
oughly tested as a complete system. In order for the
vehicle to start and charge properly, it must have a
battery that will perform to specifications. The
starter motor, generator, wiring, and electronics also
must perform within specifications. Group 8A covers
starting (Fig. 1) and charging (Fig. 2) system diag-
nostic procedures. These procedures include the most
basic conventional methods to On-Board Diagnostics
(OBD) built into the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). Use of an ammeter, volt/ohmmeter, battery
charger, carbon pile rheostat (load tester), and 12-
volt test lamp will be required.
All OBD sensing systems are monitored by the
PCM. The PCM will store in memory any detectable
failure in the monitored circuits. Refer to Using On-
Board Diagnostic System in this group for more in-
formation.
Fig. 1 Starting System Components (Typical)
JELECTRICAL 8A - 1

BATTERY TEST PROCEDURES
INDEX
page page
Battery Charging.......................... 5
Battery Diagnostics Chart................... 7
Battery Load Test......................... 4
Battery Open Circuit Voltage Test............. 3Battery Testing General Information........... 3
General Information........................ 2
Hydrometer Test.......................... 3
Specifications............................ 8
GENERAL INFORMATION
The battery stores, stabilizes, and produces electri-
cal current. A battery must be able to accept a
charge and produce high-amperage current output
over an extended period. A chemical reaction occurs
between the sulfuric acid solution (electrolyte) and
the lead +/þ plates in each cell of the battery. As
the battery discharges, the plates collect the acid
from the electrolyte. When the charging system
charges the battery, water is converted to sulfuric
acid in the battery. The amount of acid (specific
gravity) in the electrolyte can be measured with a
hydrometer. The battery is vented to release gases
that are created when the battery is being charged.
The battery top,posts, and terminals should be cleaned when other
underhood maintenance is performed.
WARNING: DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ASSIST BOOST,
CHARGE, OR TEST BATTERY WHEN ELECTRO-
LYTE LEVEL IS BELOW THE TOP OF THE PLATES.
PERSONAL INJURY MAY OCCUR.
When the electrolyte level is below the top of the
plates distilled water should be added. The battery
must be completely charged. The top, posts, and ter-
minals should be properly cleaned before diagnostic
procedures are performed. See Group 8B - Battery/
Starter/Generator Service, for additional information.
Fig. 2 Charging System Components
8A - 2 BATTERY/STARTING/CHARGING SYSTEMS DIAGNOSTICSJ

Battery/Starter/Generator Service for instructions. To
test battery no load voltage, perform the following
operation:
(1) Before measuring open circuit voltage, the sur-
face charge must be removed from plates. Turn head-
lamps on for 15 seconds then allow up to 5 minutes
for voltage to stabilize.
(2) Remove both battery cables, negative first.
(3) Using a voltmeter connected to the battery
posts (see instructions provided with voltmeter) mea-
sure open circuit voltage (Fig. 3).
This voltage reading will indicate state of charge,
but will not reveal cranking capacity. Refer to Bat-
tery Open Circuit Voltage chart.
BATTERY LOAD TEST
WARNING: IF BATTERY SHOWS SIGNS OF FREEZ-
ING, LEAKING, LOOSE POSTS, OR LOW ELECTRO-
LYTE LEVEL, DO NOT TEST. ACID BURNS OR
EXPLOSIVE CONDITION MAY RESULT.
A battery load test will verify the cranking ability
based on the cold crank amperage rating of the bat-
tery.
Before performing battery load test, the bat-
tery must be FULLY CHARGED.
(1) Remove both battery cables, negative first. Bat-
tery top and posts should be clean.(2) Connect a suitable volt-ammeter-load tester
(Fig. 4) to the battery posts (Fig. 5). Refer to operat-
ing instructions provided with the tester being used.
Check the open circuit voltage (no load) of the bat-
tery. Voltage should be equal to or greater than 12.4
volts (Fig. 5).
(3) Rotate the load control knob (carbon pile rheo-
stat) to apply a 300 amp load for 15 seconds then re-
turn the control knob to OFF (Fig. 6). This will
remove the surface charge from the battery.
(4) Allow the battery to stabilize to open circuit
voltage (may take up to 5 minutes).
(5) Rotate the load control knob to maintain a load
(50% of cold crank amperage ratingÐsee Specifica-
tions) for a minimum of 15 seconds (Fig. 7). After 15
seconds, record the (loaded) voltage reading and re-
turn the load control knob to OFF.
(6) Voltage drop will vary according to battery
temperature at the time of the load test. Battery
temperature can be estimated by the ambient tem-
perature over the past several hours. If the battery
has been charged, boosted, or loaded a few minutes
prior to test, the battery would be somewhat warmer.
Refer to Load Test Temperature chart for proper
loaded voltage reading.
Fig. 4 Volt-Amps-Load Tester (Typical)
Fig. 5 Volt-Ammeter-Load Tester Connections
BATTERY OPEN CIRCUIT VOLTAGE
Fig. 3 Testing Open Circuit Voltage
8A - 4 BATTERY/STARTING/CHARGING SYSTEMS DIAGNOSTICSJ