There are many tools that may help in properly caring for and maintaining batteries. Below is a list of basic items that Trojan recommends for this task:

Recommended Equipment:
  • Wrench
  • Distilled Water
  • Voltmeter
  • Hydrometer
  • Post Cleaner
  • Baking Soda
  • Vaseline
  • Goggles & Gloves

CAUTION: Always wear protective clothing, gloves, and goggles when handling batteries, electrolyte, and charging your battery.

Batteries should be carefully inspected on a regular basis in order to detect and correct potential problems before they can do harm. It is a great idea to start this routine when the batteries are first received.

Inspection Guildlines:

  1. Examine the outside appearance of the battery.
    Look for cracks in the container.
    The top of the battery, posts, and connections should be clean, free of dirt, fluids, and corrosion. If batteries are dirty, refer to the Cleaning section for the proper cleaning procedure.
    Repair or replace any damaged batteries.
  2. Any fluids on or around the battery may be an indication that electrolyte is spilling, leaching, or leaking out.
    Leaking batteries must be repaired or replaced.
  3. Check all battery cables and their connections.
    Look closely for loose or damaged parts.
    Battery cables should be intact; broken or frayed cables can be extremely hazardous.
    Replace any cable that looks suspicious.
  4. Tighten all wiring connections to the proper specification (see below). Make certain there is good contact with the terminals.

Proper Torque Values for Connection Hardware:
Flooded

  • Automotive 50-70 in-lbs
  • Side 70-90 in-lbs
  • Wingnut 95-105 in-lbs
  • LPT 95-105 in-lbs
  • Stud 120-180 in-lbs
  • LT 100-120 in-lbs

VRLA

  • Button 90 to 100 in-lbs
  • LT 100-120 in-lbs

WARNING: Do not overtighten terminals. Doing so can result in post breakage, post meltdown, or fire.