MAY 2024 AFTERMARKET 37 www.aftermarketonline.net conduct a test, use a load tester or digital voltmeter to measure the disconnected battery’s Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) at least six hours after the battery has been charged. This rest period allows the battery’s chemical reactions to reach a state of equilibrium and the surface charge to dissipate so that an accurate voltage reading is obtained. The manufacturer’s specifications will provide the OCV that corresponds to 100% SOC. Periodic charging using a highquality charger can go a long way in helping to extend the longevity and performance of your battery. For a premium Absorbed Glass Mat battery, like an ODYSSEY battery, consider an approved AGM charger for reliable operations. “Batteries are a key component in keeping vehicles running efficiently and garages can play a vital role in helping customers to avoid frustrating breakdowns by taking charge of battery checks as part of routine servicing,” said Peter Hart, Director of Transportation for EMEA & APAC at EnerSys. He added: “Providing tips and advice on how to look after a vehicle battery can be a great way for workshops to deliver added value for customers. While some vehicle owners are more clued up than others, guidance from the professionals can often make a huge difference in prolonging the life of a battery. Technicians should also consider the customer benefits of upgrading to a powerful next generation solution such as ODYSSEY batteries, which can be a particularly good investment for heavy-duty applications, high-end sports cars and off-road vehicles.” Understanding different types of vehicle batteries Not all vehicle batteries are made in the same way and it’s important to know the difference between a conventional lead acid battery and newer Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery. A conventional flooded lead acid battery has positive and negative plates that are separated and immersed in an electrolyte of sulfuric acid. The electrolyte typically requires periodic monitoring and the addition of water. Conventional flooded lead acid batteries also require a maintenance charge every three to six months to prevent sulfation, which is the accumulation of sulfate on the plates when the battery is used without sufficient charging. An AGM battery is a more advanced alternative to the conventional flooded lead acid type. An AGM battery is sealed and features an absorbent fiberglass separator between the plates to hold the electrolyte. Sealing eliminates the need to add water or electrolyte. AGM construction holds the plates more securely than in flooded lead acid batteries, which makes them more shock and vibration resistant. Additionally, sealed AGM batteries can be mounted in any position but upside down. Delivering the performance of two separate batteries in one package, the next generation ODYSSEY battery offers massive deep cycle capacity, as well as the exceptional cranking power required to start the engine. Engineered using innovative AGM Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) technology, ODYSSEY batteries are maintenance-free. Providing vehicle owners with an incredibly durable and long-lasting alternative to conventional lead acid batteries, ODYSSEY batteries can handle impact shock, vibration or extreme weather and will operate efficiently in temperatures as low as -40ºC. For more information, visit: eu.odysseybattery.com Effective battery maintenance is key when it comes to optimising performance and driving customer satisfaction ”
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