Battery (Escort 5)

Cars are equipped at the factory with a maintenance-free battery that requires no maintenance other than keeping the case and terminals clean. To clean the terminals, disconnect them from the battery and clean them with a wire brush. Heavily corroded terminals should be treated with a solution of bicarbonate of soda applied with a toothbrush. However, do not allow the solution to get inside the battery. Before connecting the battery clamps, lubricate the terminals with acid-free petroleum jelly or anti-corrosion compound. To check the condition of the battery, check the specific gravity of the electrolyte every 3 months. A density spread of about 0.04 or more between any of the cells indicates loss of electrolyte or deterioration of the battery plates. In this case, charge the battery until the density is equal in all the cells. Otherwise, the battery must be replaced. Periodically check that the battery plates in each cell are covered with electrolyte on top to a thickness of about 6 mm.

Charging the battery

Under normal use, the battery does not require recharging from external sources. Only if the battery is not in use for a long time does it require recharging every 6 weeks. Recharging may also be required when using the car mainly for short trips in the dark. Otherwise, the need to recharge the battery indicates a faulty battery or its charging circuit. When using a charger, there is no need to disconnect it from the car's electrical system, however, you should turn off the ignition and leave the hood open.

Very fast charging should be avoided, as it may cause irreversible damage to the battery due to overheating. With any charging method, the temperature of the electrolyte in the battery should not exceed 38°C. If the battery becomes hot or vigorous gassing in the electrolyte begins, charging should be stopped. Charging should be performed with a constant current equal to 1/20 of the battery capacity. The end of charging is indicated by intensive gassing from the battery and the fact that the density of the electrolyte does not change over the last 3 hours of charging.