battery test?

[lightningad]

I want to check my battery is running/charging correctly - what is the best way to do this?

I do have an electrical test meter, but i don't know if that is sufficient. Also - do i need to have the car running or engine off. What should the numbers be reading?

I could take it to halfrauds but if i can do it myself it'll be cheaper and quicker!

[NiftyNev]

If you have a multimeter it's simple.Set multimeter to DC volts (Set at 20V setting)) and connect to battery positive and negative terminals.Start engine and bring revs slowly up to 2000 RPM.Voltage should slowly climb and peak at somewhere between 13.9 and 15.1 Volts.Lower reading indicates alternator not puting out proper charge.Higher and batteries may be cooked because regulator in alternator not working.Do test with engine at operating temp.

Neville

[dave.j.robbo]

It's difficult to do a proper full test on a battery without proper test equipment.

You can check the charging circuit by measuring the battery voltage, with the engine off. You should get around 12V. Keep the meter connected to the battery, and start the engine. If the voltage dips to below 8V (ish), I'd say the battery is a bit knackered.. Once the engine is running, the alternator should push the voltage at the battery to around 13.4V. Any lower, and the charging circuit is faulty.

Hope this helps..

[NiftyNev]

It's difficult to do a proper full test on a battery without proper test equipment.

You can check the charging circuit by measuring the battery voltage, with the engine off. You should get around 12V. Keep the meter connected to the battery, and start the engine. If the voltage dips to below 8V (ish), I'd say the battery is a bit knackered.. Once the engine is running, the alternator should push the voltage at the battery to around 13.4V. Any lower, and the charging circuit is faulty.

Hope this helps..

Yep.Load testing is something else but a simple test can be done.Switch lights on high beam,turn on fans and observe the battery voltage while cranking engine.

Neville