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Accurately testing batteries isn't always the easiest thing to do.
A 12V battery should read about 12.7V when fully charged, 12.4 at 75% charge, 12.2 at 50%, 12.2 at 25%, and 11.9 when discharged. Having a meter that can read to 0.1V is important. A voltage reading of 10.5+/- may indicate a shorted cell.
Next I would do a load test. A typical starting battery might be rated at 500CCA. With a fully and freshly charged battery it would be best to apply a 20 amp load for 3-5 minutes to burn off the surface charge. Then apply a 250 amp load for 15 min. Next take hydrometer readings of all cells. There should not be more than .05 difference between all cells.
Maintenance free/sealed batteries are harder to test.
Best to use your batteries and keep them fully charged to prolong their life.
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Topic: Battery Tester
