1998 DODGE RAM 1500 battery temp

WIDE OPEN THROTTLE MODE
This is an Open Loop mode. During wide open
throttle operation, the PCM receives the following
inputs.
²Battery voltage
²Crankshaft position sensor
²Engine coolant temperature sensor
²Intake manifold air temperature sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
²Throttle position sensor (TPS)
²Camshaft position sensor signal
During wide open throttle conditions, the following
occurs:
²Voltage is applied to the fuel injectors with the
ASD relay via the PCM. The PCM will then control
the injection sequence and injector pulse width by
turning the ground circuit to each individual injector
on and off. The PCM ignores the oxygen sensor input
signal and provides a predetermined amount of addi-
tional fuel. This is done by adjusting injector pulse
width.
²The PCM adjusts ignition timing by turning the
ground path to the coil(s) on and off.
IGNITION SWITCH OFF MODE
When ignition switch is turned to OFF position,
the PCM stops operating the injectors, ignition coil,
ASD relay and fuel pump relay.
DESCRIPTION - 5 VOLT SUPPLIES
Two different Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
five volt supply circuits are used; primary and sec-
ondary.
DESCRIPTION - IGNITION CIRCUIT SENSE
This circuit ties the ignition switch to the Power-
train Control Module (PCM).
DESCRIPTION - POWER GROUNDS
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has 2 main
grounds. Both of these grounds are referred to as
power grounds. All of the high-current, noisy, electri-
cal devices are connected to these grounds as well as
all of the sensor returns. The sensor return comes
into the sensor return circuit, passes through noise
suppression, and is then connected to the power
ground.
The power ground is used to control ground cir-
cuits for the following PCM loads:
²Generator field winding
²Fuel injectors
²Ignition coil(s)
²Certain relays/solenoids
²Certain sensors
DESCRIPTION - SENSOR RETURN
The Sensor Return circuits are internal to the Pow-
ertrain Control Module (PCM).
Sensor Return provides a low±noise ground refer-
ence for all engine control system sensors. Refer to
Power Grounds for more information.
OPERATION
OPERATION - PCM
The PCM operates the fuel system. The PCM is a
pre-programmed, triple microprocessor digital com-
puter. It regulates ignition timing, air-fuel ratio,
emission control devices, charging system, certain
transmission features, speed control, air conditioning
compressor clutch engagement and idle speed. The
PCM can adapt its programming to meet changing
operating conditions.
The PCM receives input signals from various
switches and sensors. Based on these inputs, the
PCM regulates various engine and vehicle operations
through different system components. These compo-
nents are referred to as Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) Outputs. The sensors and switches that pro-
vide inputs to the PCM are considered Powertrain
Control Module (PCM) Inputs.
The PCM adjusts ignition timing based upon
inputs it receives from sensors that react to: engine
rpm, manifold absolute pressure, engine coolant tem-
perature, throttle position, transmission gear selec-
tion (automatic transmission), vehicle speed, power
steering pump pressure, and the brake switch.
The PCM adjusts idle speed based on inputs it
receives from sensors that react to: throttle position,
vehicle speed, transmission gear selection, engine
coolant temperature and from inputs it receives from
the air conditioning clutch switch and brake switch.
Based on inputs that it receives, the PCM adjusts
ignition coil dwell. The PCM also adjusts the gener-
ator charge rate through control of the generator
field and provides speed control operation.
NOTE: PCM Inputs:
²ABS module (if equipped)
²A/C request (if equipped with factory A/C)
²A/C select (if equipped with factory A/C)
²A/C pressure transducer
²Auto shutdown (ASD) sense
²Battery temperature sensor
²Battery voltage
²Brake switch
²J1850 bus (+) circuits
²J1850 bus (-) circuits
²Camshaft position sensor signal
²Crankshaft position sensor
8E - 10 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESDR
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

²Data link connection for DRB scan tool
²EATX module (if equipped)
²Engine coolant temperature sensor
²Fuel level (through J1850 circuitry)
²Generator (battery voltage) output
²Ignition circuit sense (ignition switch in on/off/
crank/run position)
²Intake manifold air temperature sensor
²Knock sensors (2 on 3.7L engine)
²Leak detection pump (switch) sense (if equipped)
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
²Oil pressure
²Oxygen sensors
²Park/neutral switch (auto. trans. only)
²Power ground
²Power steering pressure switch (if equipped)
²Sensor return
²Signal ground
²Speed control multiplexed single wire input
²Throttle position sensor
²Transfer case switch (4WD range position)
²Vehicle speed signal
NOTE: PCM Outputs:
²A/C clutch relay
²Auto shutdown (ASD) relay
²J1850 bus (+/-) circuits for: speedometer, voltme-
ter, fuel gauge, oil pressure gauge/lamp, engine temp.
gauge and speed control warn. lamp
²Data link connection for DRB scan tool
²EGR valve control solenoid (if equipped)
²EVAP canister purge solenoid
²Five volt sensor supply (primary)
²Five volt sensor supply (secondary)
²Fuel injectors
²Fuel pump relay
²Generator field driver (-)
²Generator field driver (+)
²Idle air control (IAC) motor
²Ignition coil(s)
²Leak detection pump (if equipped)
²Malfunction indicator lamp (Check engine lamp).
Driven through J1850 circuits.²Oxygen sensor heater relays
²Oxygen sensors (pulse width modulated)
²Radiator cooling fan relay (pulse width modu-
lated)
²Speed control vacuum solenoid
²Speed control vent solenoid
²Tachometer (if equipped). Driven through J1850
circuits.
²Transmission convertor clutch circuit. Driven
through J1850 circuits.
OPERATION - 5 VOLT SUPPLIES
Primary 5±volt supply:
²supplies the required 5 volt power source to the
Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor.
²supplies the required 5 volt power source to the
Camshaft Position (CMP) sensor.
²supplies a reference voltage for the Manifold
Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor.
²supplies a reference voltage for the Throttle
Position Sensor (TPS) sensor.
Secondary 5±volt supply:
²supplies the required 5 volt power source to the
oil pressure sensor.
²supplies the required 5 volt power source for the
Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) (if equipped).
²supplies the 5 volt power source to the transmis-
sion pressure sensor (certain automatic transmis-
sions).
OPERATION - IGNITION CIRCUIT SENSE
The ignition circuit sense input tells the PCM the
ignition switch has energized the ignition circuit.
Battery voltage is also supplied to the PCM
through the ignition switch when the ignition is in
the RUN or START position. This is referred to as
the9ignition sense9circuit and is used to9wake up9
the PCM. Voltage on the ignition input can be as low
as 6 volts and the PCM will still function. Voltage is
supplied to this circuit to power the PCM's 8-volt reg-
ulator and to allow the PCM to perform fuel, ignition
and emissions control functions.
DRELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 11
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

STANDARD PROCEDURE - PCM/SKIM
PROGRAMMING
NOTE: There are two procedures for transfering the
secret key to the SKIM:
²When ONLY the SKIM module is replaced, the
secret key is transfered from the PCM (NGC- gaso-
line engine) or ECM (Cummins - diesel engine) to
the SKIM. The ORGINAL KEYS may then be pro-
grammed to the SKIM.
²When ONLY the PCM/ECM is replaced, then the
secret key is transfered from the SKIM to the PCM/
ECM. The ORGINAL KEYS may be used.
²When BOTH the SKIM and the PCM/ECM are
replaced the secret key is transferred from the
SKIM to the PCM/ECM, and NEW KEYS must be
programmed.
NOTE: Before replacing the PCM/ECM (depending
on engine application), for a failed driver, control
circuit, or ground circuit, be sure to check the
related component/circuit integrity for failures not
detected due to a double fault in the circuit. Most
PCM/ECM driver/control circuit failures are caused
by internal component failures (i.e. relay and sole-
noids) and shorted circuits (i.e. pull-ups, drivers
and switched circuits). These failures are difficult to
detect when a double fault has occurred and only
one Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) has set.
When a PCM/ECM and the Sentry Key Immobi-
lizer Module (SKIM) are replaced at the same time
perform the following steps in order:
(1) Program the new PCM/ECM.
(2) Program the new SKIM.
(3) Replace all ignition keys and program them to
the new SKIM.
PROGRAMMING THE PCM (NGC) or ECM
(CUMMINS)
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) Secret
Key is an ID code that is unique to each SKIM. This
code is programmed and stored in the SKIM, PCM/
ECM and transponder chip (ignition keys). When
replacing the PCM/ECM it is necessary to program
the secret key into the new PCM/ECM using the
DRBIIItscan tool. Perform the following steps to
program the secret key into the PCM/ECM.
(1) Turn the ignition switch on (transmission in
park/neutral).
(2) Use the DRBIIItscan tool and select THEFT
ALARM, SKIM then MISCELLANEOUS.
(3) Select PCM REPLACED (GAS ENGINE) or
CUMMINS ECM REPLACED (DIESEL ENGINE).(4) Enter secured access mode by entering the
vehicle four-digit PIN.
(5) Select ENTER to update PCM/ECM VIN.
NOTE: If three attempts are made to enter secure
access mode using an incorrect PIN, secured
access mode will be locked out for one hour. To
exit this lockout mode, turn the ignition to the RUN
position for one hour then enter the correct PIN.
(Ensure all accessories are turned OFF. Also moni-
tor the battery state and connect a battery charger
if necessary).
(6) Press ENTER to transfer the secret key (the
SKIM will send the secret key to the PCM/ECM).
(7) Press Page Back to get to the Select System
menu and select ENGINE, MISCELLANEOUS, and
SRI MEMORY CHECK.
(8) On gasoline engine applications (NGC), the
DRBIIItscan tool will ask, Is odometer reading
between XX and XX? Select the YES or NO button on
the DRB IIItscan tool. If NO is selected, the
DRBIIItscan tool will read, Enter odometer
Reading. Enter the odometer
reading from the instrument cluster and press
ENTER.
PROGRAMMING THE SKIM
(1) Turn the ignition switch on (transmission in
park/neutral).
(2) Use the DRBIIItscan tool and select THEFT
ALARM, SKIM then MISCELLANEOUS.
(3) Select SKIM REPLACED.
(4) Program the vehicle four-digit PIN into SKIM.
(5) Select COUNTRY CODE and enter the correct
country.
NOTE: Be sure to enter the correct country code. If
the incorrect country code is programmed into the
SKIM, the SKIM must be replaced.
(6) Select YES to update the VIN (the SKIM will
learn the VIN from the PCM/ECM).
(7) Press ENTER to transfer the secret key (the
PCM/ECM will send the secret key information to
the SKIM).
(8) Program ignition keys to the SKIM.
NOTE: If the PCM/ECM and the SKIM are replaced
at the same time, all vehicle keys will need to be
replaced and programmed to the new SKIM.
PROGRAMMING IGNITION KEYS TO THE SKIM
(1) Turn the ignition switch on (transmission in
park/neutral).
8E - 14 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESDR
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE (Continued)

(2) Use the DRBIIItscan tool and select THEFT
ALARM, SKIM then MISCELLANEOUS.
(3) Select PROGRAM IGNITION KEY'S.
(4) Enter secured access mode by entering the
vehicle four-digit PIN.
NOTE: A maximum of eight keys can be learned to
each SKIM. Once a key is learned to a SKIM, it (the
key) cannot be transferred to another vehicle.
(5) If ignition key programming is unsuccessful,
the DRBIIItscan tool will display one of the follow-
ing messages:
(a) Programming Not Attempted - The DRBIIIt
scan tool attempts to read the programmed key
status and there are no keys programmed into
SKIM memory.
(b) Programming Key Failed (Possible Used Key
From Wrong Vehicle) - SKIM is unable to program
key due to one of the following:
²Faulty ignition key transponder.
²Ignition key is programmed to another vehicle.
(c) 8 Keys Already Learned, Programming Not
Done - SKIM transponder ID memory is full.
(6) Obtain ignition keys to be programmed from
customer (8 keys maximum).
(7) Using the DRBIIItscan tool, erase all ignition
keys by selecting MISCELLANEOUS and ERASE
ALL CURRENT IGN. KEYS.
(8) Program all ignition keys.
Learned Key In Ignition - Ignition key transponder
ID is currently programmed in SKIM memory.
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove upper and lower covers (shrouds) from
steering column.
(3) Disconnect the steering column wire harness
connector from the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module
(SKIM)(4) Remove the screw that secures the SKIM to
the steering column (Fig. 7).
(5) Release the SKIM antenna ring retaining clips
from around the ignition switch lock cylinder housing
and remove the SKIM.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: If the SKIM is replaced with a new unit, a
DRBIIITscan tool MUST be used to initialize the
new SKIM and to program at least two Sentry Key
transponders before the vehicle can be operated
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/VEHICLE THEFT SECU-
RITY - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(1) Position the SKIM antenna ring around the
ignition switch lock cylinder housing.
(2) Install the SKIM antenna ring retaining clips.
(3) Install the screw that secures the SKIM to the
steering column.
(4) Connect the steering column wire harness con-
nector to the SKIM.
(5) Position both the upper and lower shrouds onto
the steering column.
(6) Install and tighten the screws that secure the
lower steering column shroud to the upper shroud.
Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (18 in. lbs.).
(7) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
Fig. 7 Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM)
1 - SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE (SKIM)
2 - STEERING COLUMN
3 - SCREW
4 - WIRING HARNES
DRELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 15
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE (Continued)

TRANSMISSION CONTROL
MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The Transmission Control Module (TCM) (Fig. 9)
may be sub-module within the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM), Engine Control Module (ECM - Diesel
only) (Fig. 10), or a standalone module, depending on
the vehicle engine. The PCM, and TCM when
equipped, is located at the right rear of the engine
compartment, near the right inner fender.
OPERATION
The Transmission Control Module (TCM) controls
all electronic operations of the transmission. The
TCM receives information regarding vehicle opera-
tion from both direct and indirect inputs, and selects
the operational mode of the transmission. Direct
inputs are hardwired to, and used specifically by the
TCM. Indirect inputs are shared with the TCM via
the vehicle communication bus.
Some examples ofdirect inputsto the TCM are:
²Battery (B+) voltage
²Ignition ªONº voltage
²Transmission Control Relay (Switched B+)
²Throttle Position Sensor
²Crankshaft Position Sensor
²Transmission Range Sensor
²Pressure Switches
²Transmission Temperature Sensor
²Input Shaft Speed Sensor
²Output Shaft Speed Sensor
²Line Pressure Sensor
Some examples ofindirect inputsto the TCM
are:²Engine/Body Identification
²Manifold Pressure
²Target Idle
²Torque Reduction Confirmation
²Engine Coolant Temperature
²Ambient/Battery Temperature
²DRBIIItScan Tool Communication
Based on the information received from these var-
ious inputs, the TCM determines the appropriate
shift schedule and shift points, depending on the
present operating conditions and driver demand.
This is possible through the control of various direct
and indirect outputs.
Some examples of TCMdirect outputsare:
²Transmission Control Relay
²Solenoids
²Torque Reduction Request
Some examples of TCMindirect outputsare:
²Transmission Temperature (to PCM)
²PRNDL Position (to BCM)
In addition to monitoring inputs and controlling
outputs, the TCM has other important responsibili-
ties and functions:
²Storing and maintaining Clutch Volume Indexes
(CVI)
²Storing and selecting appropriate Shift Sched-
ules
²System self-diagnostics
Fig. 9 PCM/TCM Location
1 - RIGHT FENDER
2 - TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE
3 - POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE
Fig. 10 Diesel ECM
1 - ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM)
2 - ECM MOUNTING BOLT
3 - 50-WAY CONNECTOR
4 - SUPPORT PLATE
5 - 60-WAY CONNECTOR
8E - 20 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESDR

For battery system maintenance schedules and
jump starting procedures, see the owner's manual in
the vehicle glove box. Optionally, refer to the Lubri-
cation and Maintenance section of this manual for
the proper battery jump starting procedure. While
battery charging can be considered a maintenance
procedure, the battery charging procedure and
related information are located later in this section of
the service manual. This was done because the bat-
tery must be fully-charged before any battery system
diagnosis or testing procedures can be performed.
OPERATION
The battery system is designed to provide a safe,
efficient, reliable and mobile means of delivering and
storing electrical energy. This electrical energy is
required to operate the engine starting system, as
well as to operate many of the other vehicle acces-
sory systems for limited durations while the engine
and/or the charging system are not operating. The
battery system is also designed to provide a reserve
of electrical energy to supplement the charging sys-
tem for short durations while the engine is running
and the electrical current demands of the vehicle
exceed the output of the charging system. In addition
to delivering, and storing electrical energy for the
vehicle, the battery system serves as a capacitor and
voltage stabilizer for the vehicle electrical system. It
absorbs most abnormal or transient voltages caused
by the switching of any of the electrical components
or circuits in the vehicle.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY SYSTEM
The battery, starting, and charging systems in the
vehicle operate with one another and must be tested
as a complete system. In order for the engine to start
and the battery to maintain its charge properly, all of
the components that are used in these systems must
perform within specifications. It is important thatthe battery, starting, and charging systems be thor-
oughly tested and inspected any time a battery needs
to be charged or replaced. The cause of abnormal bat-
tery discharge, overcharging or early battery failure
must be diagnosed and corrected before a battery is
replaced and before a vehicle is returned to service.
The service information for these systems has been
separated within this service manual to make it eas-
ier to locate the specific information you are seeking.
However, when attempting to diagnose any of these
systems, it is important that you keep their interde-
pendency in mind.
The diagnostic procedures used for the battery,
starting, and charging systems include the most
basic conventional diagnostic methods, to the more
sophisticated On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) built into
the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Use of an
induction-type milliampere ammeter, a volt/ohmme-
ter, a battery charger, a carbon pile rheostat (load
tester), a 12-volt test lamp and/or special service
tools may be required. All OBD-sensed systems are
monitored by the PCM. Each monitored circuit is
assigned a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). The PCM
will store a DTC in electronic memory for any failure
it detects. Always check the PCM for stored trouble
codes before returning the vehicle to service. Refer to
Charging System for the proper charging system test
procedures. Refer to Starting System for the proper
starting system test procedures.
MICRO 420 BATTERY TESTER
The Micro 420 automotive battery tester is
designed to help the dealership technician diagnose a
defective battery. Follow the instruction manual sup-
plied with the tester to properly diagnose a battery.
If the instruction manual is not available, refer to
the standard procedure in this section, which
includes the directions for using the Micro 420 bat-
tery tester.
8F - 2 BATTERY SYSTEMDR
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)

BATTERY SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
THE BATTERY SEEMS
WEAK OR DEAD WHEN
ATTEMPTING TO START
THE ENGINE.1. The electrical system
ignition-off draw is excessive.1. Refer to the IGNITION-OFF DRAW TEST
Standard Procedure for the proper test
procedures. Repair the excessive ignition-off
draw, as required.
2. The charging system is
faulty.2. Determine if the charging system is performing
to specifications. Refer to Charging System for
additional charging system diagnosis and testing
procedures. Repair the faulty charging system, as
required.
3. The battery is discharged. 3. Determine the battery state-of-charge using the
Micro 420 battery tester. Refer to the Standard
Procedures in this section for additional test
procedures. Charge the faulty battery, as
required.
4. The battery terminal
connections are loose or
corroded.4. Refer to Battery Cables for the proper battery
cable diagnosis and testing procedures. Clean
and tighten the battery terminal connections, as
required.
5. The battery has an
incorrect size or rating for
this vehicle.5. Refer to Battery System Specifications for the
proper size and rating. Replace an incorrect
battery, as required.
6. The battery is faulty. 6. Determine the battery cranking capacity using
the Micro 420 battery tester. Refer to the
Standard Procedures in this section for additional
test procedures. Replace the faulty battery, as
required.
7. The starting system is
faulty.7. Determine if the starting system is performing
to specifications. Refer to Starting System for the
proper starting system diagnosis and testing
procedures. Repair the faulty starting system, as
required.
8. The battery is physically
damaged.8. Inspect the battery for loose terminal posts or a
cracked and leaking case. Replace the damaged
battery, as required.
DRBATTERY SYSTEM 8F - 3
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)

MICRO 420 BATTERY TESTER
The Micro 420 automotive battery tester is
designed to help the dealership technician diagnose
the cause of a defective battery. Follow the instruc-
tion manual supplied with the tester to properly
diagnose a battery. If the instruction manual is not
available, refer to the standard procedure in this sec-
tion, which includes the directions for using the
Micro 420 battery tester.
WARNING: IF THE BATTERY SHOWS SIGNS OF
FREEZING, LEAKING OR LOOSE POSTS, DO NOT
TEST, ASSIST-BOOST, OR CHARGE. THE BATTERY
MAY ARC INTERNALLY AND EXPLODE. PERSONAL
INJURY AND/OR VEHICLE DAMAGE MAY RESULT.
WARNING: EXPLOSIVE HYDROGEN GAS FORMS IN
AND AROUND THE BATTERY. DO NOT SMOKE,
USE FLAME, OR CREATE SPARKS NEAR THE BAT-
TERY. PERSONAL INJURY AND/OR VEHICLE DAM-
AGE MAY RESULT.
WARNING: THE BATTERY CONTAINS SULFURIC
ACID, WHICH IS POISONOUS AND CAUSTIC. AVOID
CONTACT WITH THE SKIN, EYES, OR CLOTHING.
IN THE EVENT OF CONTACT, FLUSH WITH WATER
AND CALL A PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY. KEEP OUT
OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.
A battery that will not accept a charge is faulty,
and must be replaced. Further testing is not
required. A fully-charged battery must be load tested
to determine its cranking capacity. A battery that is
fully-charged, but does not pass the load test, is
faulty and must be replaced. Always test battery
using the Micro 420 battery tester before attempting
to replace a battery under the manufactures war-
ranty provisions.
NOTE: Completely discharged batteries may take
several hours to accept a charge. Refer to Standard
Procedures for the proper battery charging proce-
dures.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - BATTERY
CHARGING
Battery charging can be performed fast or slow, in
terms of time.Slowbattery charging is the best
means of restoring a battery to full potential. Fast
battery charging should only be performed when
absolutely necessary due to time restraints. A battery
is fully-charged when:²All of the battery cells are gassing freely during
battery charging.
²A green color is visible in the sight glass of the
battery built-in test indicator.
²Three hydrometer tests, taken at one-hour inter-
vals, indicate no increase in the temperature-cor-
rected specific gravity of the battery electrolyte.
²Open-circuit voltage of the battery is 12.65 volts
or above.
WARNING: NEVER EXCEED TWENTY AMPERES
WHEN CHARGING A COLD (-1É C [30É F] OR
LOWER) BATTERY. THE BATTERY MAY ARC INTER-
NALLY AND EXPLODE. PERSONAL INJURY AND/OR
VEHICLE DAMAGE MAY RESULT.
CAUTION: Always disconnect and isolate the bat-
tery negative cable before charging a battery. Do
not exceed sixteen volts while charging a battery.
Damage to the vehicle electrical system compo-
nents may result.
CAUTION: Battery electrolyte will bubble inside the
battery case during normal battery charging. Elec-
trolyte boiling or being discharged from the battery
vents indicates a battery overcharging condition.
Immediately reduce the charging rate or turn off the
charger to evaluate the battery condition. Damage
to the battery may result from overcharging.
CAUTION: The battery should not be hot to the
touch. If the battery feels hot to the touch, turn off
the charger and let the battery cool before continu-
ing the charging operation. Damage to the battery
may result.
NOTE: Models equipped with the diesel engine are
equipped with two 12-volt batteries, connected in
parallel (positive-to-positive and negative-to-nega-
tive). In order to ensure proper charging of each
battery, these batteries MUST be disconnected from
each other, as well as from the vehicle electrical
system while being charged.
Some battery chargers are equipped with polarity-
sensing circuitry. This circuitry protects the battery
charger and the battery from being damaged if they
are improperly connected. If the battery state-of-
charge is too low for the polarity-sensing circuitry to
detect, the battery charger will not operate. This
makes it appear that the battery will not accept
charging current. See the instructions provided by
the manufacturer of the battery charger for details
on how to bypass the polarity-sensing circuitry.
8F - 8 BATTERY SYSTEMDR
BATTERY (Continued)