2002 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE service

lamp flash features), Unlock with the optional RKE
unlock, and Panic Mode functions. The optional RKE
features are programmable.
²Switch Illumination- Each door module pro-
vides control of the power window and power lock
switch illumination for the front and rear doors on
the same side of the vehicle. The DDM provides con-
trol of the power mirror switch illumination.
²Window Lockout- The DDM monitors and
transmits the status of its integral window lockout
switch to provide the power window lockout feature
and coordinate power window switch knob illumina-
tion.
The door modules are serviced only as complete
units. Many of the features in the vehicle controlled
or supported by the door modules are programmable
using either the Electronic Vehicle Information Cen-
ter (EVIC) user interface, or the DRBIIItscan tool. If
a door module is damaged or faulty, the entire door
module unit must be replaced.
OPERATION
The microprocessor-based DDM and PDM hard-
ware and software monitors integral and hard wired
external switch inputs as well as those resources it
shares with other electronic modules in the vehicle
through its communication over the PCI data bus
network. The internal programming and all of these
inputs allow the DDM or PDM microprocessor to
determine the tasks it needs to perform and their
priorities, as well as both the standard and optional
features that it should provide.
The DDM and PDM are powered by a fused bat-
tery circuit so that they can operate regardless of the
ignition switch position. The DDM and PDM cir-
cuitry is grounded to the chassis beneath the front
seat.
The DDM and PDM can be diagnosed using a
DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnos-
tic information.
HARD WIRED INPUTS
The hard wired inputs to the door modules include
the following:
²Door ajar switch sense
²Driver door key cylinder switch sense (DDM)
²Fused B(+)
²Ground
²Memory switch mux (DDM)
²Mirror horizontal position signal
²Mirror vertical position signal
²PCI bus
HARD WIRED OUTPUTS
The hard wired outputs of the door modules
include the following:
²Courtesy lamp driver
²Courtesy lamp ground
²Diagnostic out (DDM)
²Door/liftgate lock driver
²Door/liftgate unlock driver
²Door switch illumination (rear power window)
²Front window driver (down)
²Front window driver (up)
²Memory set indicator driver (DDM)
²Memory switch return (DDM)
²Mirror common driver
²Mirror heater ground
²Mirror heater 12V supply
²Rear window driver (down)
²Rear window driver (up)
²Mirror horizontal driver
²Mirror sensor ground
²Mirror vertical driver
²PCI bus
²Switch illumination driver (memory - DDM)
MESSAGING
The door modules use the following messages
received from other electronic modules over the PCI
data bus:
²Accessory Delay Control (PDM)
²Courtesy Lamp Status (BCM)
²Door Ajar Status/Rear Doors (BCM)
²Door Lock Status (DDM/PDM)
²Ignition Switch Position (BCM)
²Key-In Ignition Status (BCM)
²Programmable Features Preferences/Auto Lock/
Auto Unlock/RKE Unlock Sequence/RKE Link to
Memory (EVIC)
²Memory Recall (DDM)
²Rear Window Defogger Relay Status (BCM)
²Vehicle Speed (PCM)
The door modules provide the following messages
to other electronic modules over the PCI data bus:
²Cylinder Lock Switch Status (BCM)
²Door Ajar Status/Front Doors (BCM/DDM/PDM)
²Door Lock Status (DDM/PDM)
²Memory Recall (PDM/MHSM/MSM/Radio)
²Memory Set Switch Status (PDM/MHSM/MSM/
Radio)
²Panic Control (BCM)
²Power Window Switch Status (PDM)
²RKE Status (BCM/DDM)
²Window Lockout Switch Status (PDM)
WJELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 9
DOOR MODULE (Continued)

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - DOOR MODULE
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.
The hard wired inputs to and outputs from the
Driver Door Module (DDM) or the Passenger Door
Module (PDM) may be diagnosed and tested using
conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. It is
suggested that the proper operation of the inopera-
tive power window motor, power door lock motor,
power liftgate lock motor, power mirror motors, or
heated mirror grid be confirmed using jumper wires
to bypass the door module. If the inoperative compo-
nent operates when the door module is bypassed,
check the circuits between the component and the
door module, as well as the fused B(+) and ground
circuits of the door module for shorts or opens.
These conventional diagnostic methods may not
prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the DDM or the
PDM. In order to obtain conclusive testing of these
modules, the Programmable Communications Inter-
face (PCI) data bus network and all of the modules
that provide inputs to or receive outputs from the
door modules must also be checked. The most reli-
able, efficient, and accurate means to diagnose the
DDM, the PDM, the PCI data bus network, and the
modules that provide inputs to or receive outputs
from the door modules requires the use of a DRBIIIt
scan tool and the appropriate diagnostic information.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the trim panel from the front door.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/DOOR - FRONT/TRIM PANEL -
REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the door module from the back of the
front door trim panel (Fig. 8).
(4) Remove the door module from the front door
trim panel.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the door module onto the front door
trim panel.
(2) Install the door module to the back of the front
door trim panel (Fig. 8). Tighten the screws to 2.2
N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(3) Reinstall the trim panel onto the front door.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/DOOR - FRONT/TRIM PANEL -
INSTALLATION).
(4) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
MEMORY HEATED SEAT/
MIRROR MODULE
DESCRIPTION
There are two different modules that can be used
in the optional heated seat system. The Heated Seat
Module (HSM) is used on vehicles that are not
equipped with the optional Memory System. The
Memory Heated Seat Module (MHSM) is used on
vehicles that are equipped with the optional Memory
System and the optional heated seat system.Refer to
Memory Systemin Power Seat Systems for more
information on the memory system option.
The module is mounted on a bracket that is located
between the power seat track and the seat cushion
frame (Fig. 9). The HSM or MHSM is used to control
the heated seat system functions for both front seats.
The HSM or MHSM contains a central processing
unit that communicates with other modules on the
Fig. 8 Door Module Remove/Install
1 - FRONT DOOR TRIM PANEL
2 - SCREW (5)
3 - DOOR MODULE
8E - 10 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESWJ
DOOR MODULE (Continued)

sponder through a tuned antenna ring integral to the
SKIM housing. If this antenna ring is not mounted
properly around the ignition lock cylinder housing,
communication problems between the SKIM and the
transponder may arise. These communication prob-
lems will result in Sentry Key transponder-related
faults. The SKIM also communicates over the Pro-
grammable Communications Interface (PCI) data bus
with the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the Elec-
troMechanical Instrument Cluster (EMIC), the Body
Control Module (BCM), and/or the DRBIIItscan tool.
The SKIM retains in memory the ID numbers of
any Sentry Key transponder that is programmed into
it. A maximum of eight transponders can be pro-
grammed into the SKIM. For added system security,
each SKIM is programmed with a unique Secret Key
code. This code is stored in memory, sent over the
PCI data bus to the PCM, and is encoded to the tran-
sponder of every Sentry Key that is programmed into
the SKIM. Another security code, called a PIN, is
used to gain access to the SKIM Secured Access
Mode. The Secured Access Mode is required during
service to perform the SKIS initialization and Sentry
Key transponder programming procedures. The
SKIM also stores the Vehicle Identification Number
(VIN) in its memory, which it learns through a PCI
data bus message from the PCM during SKIS initial-
ization.
In the event that a SKIM replacement is required,
the Secret Key code can be transferred to the new
SKIM from the PCM using the DRBIIItscan tool
and the SKIS replacement procedure. Proper comple-
tion of the SKIS initialization will allow the existing
Sentry Keys to be programmed into the new SKIM so
that new keys will not be required. In the event that
the original Secret Key code cannot be recovered,
SKIM replacement will also require new Sentry
Keys. The DRBIIItscan tool will alert the technician
during the SKIS replacement procedure if new Sen-
try Keys are required.
When the ignition switch is turned to the On posi-
tion, the SKIM transmits an RF signal to the tran-
sponder in the ignition key. The SKIM then waits for
an RF signal response from the transponder. If the
response received identifies the key as valid, the
SKIM sends a valid key message to the PCM over
the PCI data bus. If the response received identifies
the key as invalid, or if no response is received from
the key transponder, the SKIM sends an invalid key
message to the PCM. The PCM will enable or disable
engine operation based upon the status of the SKIM
messages. It is important to note that the default
condition in the PCM is an invalid key; therefore, if
no message is received from the SKIM by the PCM,
the engine will be disabled and the vehicle immobi-
lized after two seconds of running.The SKIM also sends indicator light status mes-
sages to the EMIC over the PCI data bus to tell the
EMIC how to operate the SKIS indicator. This indi-
cator light status message tells the EMIC to turn the
indicator on for about three seconds each time the
ignition switch is turned to the On position as a bulb
test. After completion of the bulb test, the SKIM
sends indicator light status messages to the EMIC to
turn the indicator off, turn the indicator on, or to
flash the indicator on and off. If the SKIS indicator
lamp flashes or stays on solid after the bulb test, it
signifies a SKIS fault. If the SKIM detects a system
malfunction and/or the SKIS has become inoperative,
the SKIS indicator will stay on solid. If the SKIM
detects an invalid key or if a key transponder-related
fault exists, the SKIS indicator will flash. If the vehi-
cle is equipped with the Customer Learn transponder
programming feature, the SKIM will also send mes-
sages to the EMIC to flash the SKIS indicator lamp,
and to the BCM to generate a single audible chime
tone whenever the Customer Learn programming
mode is being utilized. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE - SENTRY KEY TRANSPONDER
PROGRAMMING).
The SKIS performs a self-test each time the igni-
tion switch is turned to the On position, and will
store fault information in the form of Diagnostic
Trouble Codes (DTC's) in SKIM memory if a system
malfunction is detected. The SKIM can be diagnosed,
and any stored DTC's can be retrieved using a
DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnos-
tic information.
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 the steering column opening cover
from the instrument panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL/STEERING COLUMN OPEN-
ING COVER - REMOVAL).
8E - 18 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESWJ
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE (Continued)

(3) Disconnect the instrument panel wire harness
connector from the SKIM connector.
(4) Remove the screw that secures the SKIM to
the bottom of the steering column housing (Fig. 16).
(5) Disengage the antenna ring of the SKIM from
around the ignition lock cylinder housing.
(6) Remove the SKIM from the steering column.
INSTALLATION
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) Position the SKIM to the underside of the
steering column (Fig. 16).
(2) Engage the antenna ring of the SKIM around
the ignition lock cylinder housing.
(3) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
SKIM to the bottom of the steering column hous-
ing.Tighten the screw to 3.4 N´m (30 in lbs.).
(4) Reconnect the instrument panel wire harness
connector to the SKIM connector.(5) Reinstall the steering column opening cover
onto the instrument panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL/STEERING COLUMN OPEN-
ING COVER - INSTALLATION).
(6) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(7) Perform the SKIS Replacement procedure
using the DRBIIIt.
(8) Perform the SKIS Initialization Procedure
using the DRBIIIt.
TRANSMISSION CONTROL
MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is located
in the engine compartment on the right (passenger)
side and is mounted to the inner fender (Fig. 17).
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 originate from other compo-
nents/modules, and 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
Fig. 16
Fig. 17 Transmission Control Module Location
1 - TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE (TCM)
2 - 60±WAY CONNECTOR
WJELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 19
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE (Continued)

BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
A single 12-volt battery system is standard factory-
installed equipment on this model. All of the compo-
nents of the battery system are located within the
engine compartment of the vehicle. The service infor-
mation for the battery system in this vehicle covers
the following related components, which are covered
in further detail elsewhere in this service manual:
²Battery- The storage battery provides a reli-
able means of storing a renewable source of electrical
energy within the vehicle.
²Battery Cables- The battery cables connect
the battery terminal posts to the vehicle electrical
system.
²Battery Holddown- The battery holddown
hardware secures the battery in the battery tray in
the engine compartment.
²Battery Tray- The battery tray provides a
secure mounting location in the vehicle for the bat-
tery and an anchor point for the battery holddown
hardware.
For battery system maintenance schedules and jump
starting procedures, see the owner's manual in the vehi-
cle glove box. Optionally, refer to Lubrication and Main-
tenance for the recommended battery maintenance
schedules and for the proper battery jump starting pro-
cedures. While battery charging can be considered a
maintenance procedure, the battery charging procedures
and related information are located in the standard pro-
cedures section of this service manual. This was done
because the battery must be fully-charged before any
battery system diagnosis or testing procedures can be
performed. Refer to Standard procedures for the proper
battery charging procedures.
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 that
the 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) and a 12-volt test lamp may be required. All
OBD-sensed systems are monitored by the PCM.
Each monitored circuit is assigned a Diagnostic Trou-
ble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a DTC in elec-
tronic memory for any failure it detects. Refer to
Charging System for the proper charging system on-
board diagnostic test procedures.
MICRO 420 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM TESTER
The Micro 420 automotive battery tester is
designed to help the dealership technicians diagnose
a defective battery. Follow the instruction manual
supplied with the tester to properly diagnose a vehi-
cle. If the instruction manual is not available refer to
the standard procedure in this section, which
includes the directions for using the Micro 420 elec-
trical system tester.
8F - 2 BATTERY SYSTEMWJ

CLEANING
The following information details the recommended
cleaning procedures for the battery and related com-
ponents. In addition to the maintenance schedules
found in this service manual and the owner's man-
ual, it is recommended that these procedures be per-
formed any time the battery or related components
must be removed for vehicle service.
(1) Clean the battery cable terminal clamps of all
corrosion. Remove any corrosion using a wire brush
or a post and terminal cleaning tool, and a sodium
bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water cleaning
solution (Fig. 1).
(2) Clean the battery tray and battery holddown
hardware of all corrosion. Remove any corrosion
using a wire brush and a sodium bicarbonate (baking
soda) and warm water cleaning solution. Paint any
exposed bare metal.
(3) If the removed battery is to be reinstalled,
clean the outside of the battery case and the top
cover with a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and
warm water cleaning solution using a stiff bristle
parts cleaning brush to remove any acid film (Fig. 2).
Rinse the battery with clean water. Ensure that the
cleaning solution does not enter the battery cells
through the vent holes. If the battery is being
replaced, refer to Battery System Specifications for
the factory-installed battery specifications. Confirm
that the replacement battery is the correct size and
has the correct ratings for the vehicle.(4) Clean any corrosion from the battery terminal
posts with a wire brush or a post and terminal
cleaner, and a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and
warm water cleaning solution (Fig. 3).
Fig. 1 Clean Battery Cable Terminal Clamp - Typical
1 - TERMINAL BRUSH
2 - BATTERY CABLE
Fig. 2 Clean Battery - Typical
1 - CLEANING BRUSH
2 - WARM WATER AND BAKING SODA SOLUTION
3 - BATTERY
Fig. 3 Clean Battery Terminal Post - Typical
1 - TERMINAL BRUSH
2 - BATTERY CABLE
3 - BATTERY
WJBATTERY SYSTEM 8F - 5
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)

INSPECTION
The following information details the recommended
inspection procedures for the battery and related
components. In addition to the maintenance sched-
ules found in this service manual and the owner's
manual, it is recommended that these procedures be
performed any time the battery or related compo-
nents must be removed for vehicle service.
(1) Inspect the battery cable terminal clamps for
damage. Replace any battery cable that has a dam-
aged or deformed terminal clamp.
(2) Inspect the battery tray and battery holddown
hardware for damage. Replace any damaged parts.
(3) Slide the thermal guard off of the battery case.
Inspect the battery case for cracks or other damage
that could result in electrolyte leaks. Also, check the
battery terminal posts for looseness. Batteries with
damaged cases or loose terminal posts must be
replaced.
(4) Inspect the battery built-in test indicator sight
glass for an indication of the battery condition. If the
battery is discharged, charge as required. Refer to
Standard Procedures for the proper battery built-in
indicator test procedures. Also refer to Standard Pro-
cedures for the proper battery charging procedures.
SPECIFICATIONS
The battery Group Size number, the Cold Cranking
Amperage (CCA) rating, and the Reserve Capacity
(RC) rating or Ampere-Hours (AH) rating can be
found on the original equipment battery label. Be
certain that a replacement battery has the correct
Group Size number, as well as CCA, and RC or AH
ratings that equal or exceed the original equipment
specification for the vehicle being serviced. Battery
sizes and ratings are discussed in more detail below.
²Group Size- The outside dimensions and ter-
minal placement of the battery conform to standards
established by the Battery Council International
(BCI). Each battery is assigned a BCI Group Size
number to help identify a correctly-sized replace-
ment.
²Cold Cranking Amperage- The Cold Crank-
ing Amperage (CCA) rating specifies how much cur-
rent (in amperes) the battery can deliver for thirty
seconds at -18É C (0É F). Terminal voltage must not
fall below 7.2 volts during or after the thirty second
discharge period. The CCA required is generally
higher as engine displacement increases, depending
also upon the starter current draw requirements.
²Reserve Capacity- The Reserve Capacity (RC)
rating specifies the time (in minutes) it takes for bat-
tery terminal voltage to fall below 10.5 volts, at a
discharge rate of 25 amperes. RC is determined with
the battery fully-charged at 26.7É C (80É F). This rat-
ing estimates how long the battery might last after a
charging system failure, under minimum electrical
load.
²Ampere-Hours- The Ampere-Hours (AH) rat-
ing specifies the current (in amperes) that a battery
can deliver steadily for twenty hours, with the volt-
age in the battery not falling below 10.5 volts. This
rating is also sometimes identified as the twenty-
hour discharge rating.
BATTERY CLASSIFICATIONS & RATINGS
Part NumberBCI Group Size
ClassificationCold Cranking
AmperageReserve
CapacityAmpere -
HoursLoad Test
Amperage
56041113 65 625 120 Minutes 69 300
8F - 6 BATTERY SYSTEMWJ
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)

SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY
DESCRIPTION
A large capacity, low-maintenance storage battery
(Fig. 4) is standard factory-installed equipment on
this model. Male post type terminals made of a soft
lead material protrude from the top of the molded
plastic battery case to provide the means for connect-
ing the battery to the vehicle electrical system. The
battery positive terminal post is visibly larger in
diameter than the negative terminal post, for easy
identification. The lettersPOSandNEGare also
molded into the top of the battery case adjacent to
their respective positive and negative terminal posts
for additional identification confirmation. Refer to
Battery Cablesin the index of this service manual
for the location of more information on the battery
cables that connect the battery to the vehicle electri-
cal system.
This battery is designed to provide a safe, efficient
and reliable means of storing electrical energy in a
chemical form. This means of energy storage allows
the battery to produce the electrical energy required
to operate the engine starting system, as well as to
operate many of the other vehicle accessory systems
for limited durations while the engine and/or the
charging system are not operating. The battery is
made up of six individual cells that are connected in
series. Each cell contains positively charged plate
groups that are connected with lead straps to thepositive terminal post, and negatively charged plate
groups that are connected with lead straps to the
negative terminal post. Each plate consists of a stiff
mesh framework or grid coated with lead dioxide
(positive plate) or sponge lead (negative plate). Insu-
lators or plate separators made of a non-conductive
material are inserted between the positive and nega-
tive plates to prevent them from contacting or short-
ing against one another. These dissimilar metal
plates are submerged in a sulfuric acid and water
solution called an electrolyte.
Some factory-installed batteries have a built-in test
indicator (hydrometer). The color visible in the sight
glass of the indicator will reveal the battery condi-
tion. For more information on the use of the built-in
test indicator, refer toStandard Procedures The
factory-installed low-maintenance battery has
removable battery cell caps.Distilled water can
be added to this battery. The battery is not sealed
and has vent holes in the cell caps. The chemical
composition of the metal coated plates within the
low-maintenance battery reduces battery gassing and
water loss, at normal charge and discharge rates.
Therefore, the battery should not require additional
water in normal service. If the electrolyte level in
this battery does become low, distilled water must be
added. However, rapid loss of electrolyte can be
caused by an overcharging condition. Be certain to
MICRO 420 BATTERY AND CHARGING SYSTEM
TESTER
Fig. 4 Low-Maintenance Battery - Typical
1 - POSITIVE POST
2 - VENT
3 - CELL CAP
4 - TEST INDICATOR
5 - CELL CAP
6 - VENT
7 - NEGATIVE POST
8 - GREEN BALL
9 - ELECTROLYTE LEVEL
10 - PLATE GROUPS
11 - LOW-MAINTENANCE BATTERY
WJBATTERY SYSTEM 8F - 7
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)