MOTOR TRUCK SERVICE MANUAL
ELECTRICAL
BATTERY
Fig. 1 Six-Volt Storage Battery (Cutaway)
While the battery is the heart of the automotive
DESCRIPTION AND CONSTRUCTION
electrical system, it does not generate electricity but
stores it in chemical form until needed. When
The storage battery, Figs. 1 is a lead acid
connections are made to the battery terminals, chemical
electrochemical device mounted in a molded hard rubber
action between the plates is converted to electrical
(or other nonconductor type material) case. The case is
energy. By putting electrical energy back into the battery
divided into a number of cells, which is determined by
the action is reversed.
whether the battery is a six-volt three cell type or a
twelve-volt six cell type.
Battery location on the vehicle also has much
influence on the life of the battery. For this reason the
Late model batteries use the one piece cover
battery is usually located close to the cranking motor but
construction with the cover over the post straps and
away from engine heat. It must also be accessible and
epoxy sealed to the case. Older model batteries use
mounted so as to be level and protected from road
individual cell covers which fit into the case and cover the
splash and dirt.
top of the cells. These are secured with a hot asphalt
sealant.
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