Battery - New `Fleece' Battery Technology
Date: May 2001Order No.: P-SI-54.10/53
Supersedes:
Group: 54
SUBJECT:
ALL MODELS NEW "FLEECE" BATTERY
New "Fleece" technology batteries have been phased into production as of the 1st quarter of 2001.
These new "Fleece" batteries are identified externally as follows:
^ Black battery housing
^ Identification note: VRLA Battery
Non-removable battery covers (A, Figure 1)
CONSTRUCTION OF THE BATTERY
A special woven fabric (Fleece) is used in the battery cells.
The fleece (V, Figure 2) retains the liquid sulfuric acid much like a sponge, which results in the following advantages:
^ Greater battery "Cycle" capability, which means longer battery life.
^ Improved cold start properties.
^ Virtually no acid leakage if battery housing is damaged.
^ Improved "deep discharge" durability.
^ Absolutely maintenance-free.
Additional external identification features of battery
^ No battery cell caps.
^ No acid level markings on battery housing.
^ No vented battery cell caps.
^ Identification label on battery housing
Battery Testing
The battery can only be tested via a load test. The checking of the acid level within the battery housing and the specific gravity of the acid is no longer possible.
Check:
1. Resting voltage: Nominal value: ^ 12.6 volts
2. If the nominal value is not achieved: charge battery (charge rate: max. 10% of amp. hr. rating).
3. If the nominal value is achieved: Perform load test on battery, Load test: 3x Ah rating of battery
Battery minimum voltage must be ca. 10 volts after 10 seconds.
WARNING
If the battery is to be replaced, be sure to remove the vent tube elbow with vent hose (located on one side of the battery) as well as the seal plug, (located on the other side of the battery) from the old battery and reinstall onto the new battery. This procedure is required to help reduce the risk of dangerous battery fumes from entering the interior of the vehicle.