TM 9-6140-200-14
3-14 Charging Batteries:
WARNING
Lead-acid battery being charged produces a highly
explosive hydrogen gas when being charged. Keep
sparks, open flames and other ignition sources away
from the charging area.
Do not smoke during battery charging operations.
If acid contacts the eyes, skin or clothing, flush
immediately with large amounts of cold water.
In case of eye or skin contact with acid, see a
physician immediately.
Leave battery caps installed and slightly loosened
when charging a battery. This will insure that the
battery filler vents are open and will avoid pressure
build up inside the battery and release battery gasses.
To prevent injury to personnel or damage to equipment,
Connect all cables properly. Ensure all circuit breakers
and power switches are in the off position before
connecting battery cables to the battery.
(1) Make sure battery charger is off.
(2) Connect positive (+) lead of the charger to the positive post of the battery.
(3) Connect negative (-) lead of the charger to the negative post of the battery.
(4) Turn charger on and begin charging the battery.
(5) Check battery voltage. Use the voltmeter section of the multi meter on the
distribution panel to check battery voltage. Connect voltage leads to the 50
volt connections. Using these leads, touch the negative (-) and positive (+)
posts of each battery under charge. A reading of approximately 14 volts
should be shown at the terminal of each battery under charge. If one or more
batteries shows less than 14 volts, perform the following checks.
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