On initial charging, my battery charger charges at 2 amps, 6 amps, and 8 amps. You recommend charging at 3 amps for initial charging. Can I use my charger?
Yes. First determine type charger…Constant Current or Constant Voltage. If Constant Current, follow the recommended Charge Rate and Time in Gill Service Manual available on the Gill website; make sure that you have a reliable timer to terminate charge. If Constant Voltage, you could set the initial current at any of the settings you indicate. The charge would be complete when current drops below ½ ampere.
I have a new 12 volt battery and a 12 volt automotive charger. Can I use this type charger to charge my battery?
First determine the type charger…Constant Current or Constant Voltage. Follow charging instructions as outlined with battery or in Gill Service Manual available on the Gill website.
Is it OK to charge my battery for 4 hours today and finish the charge tomorrow?
Yes…Shut the charger off when you leave. Continue charging the following day. For best results, try to complete the charge the same day. Gill batteries do not have any “memory effect” limiting charge acceptance.
On initial set-up, when adding electrolyte, the instructions indicate to fill to the bottom of the split ring. Is that the split near the top or down inside the battery?
The bottom of the split ring is approximately ¾” below the opening of the cell. On the initial fill of electrolyte, put just enough electrolyte in to cover the plates/separators (approx 1/8th of an inch above the plates). Once the initial charging begins, the level of electrolyte will rise, ensure that the electrolyte is just below the bottom of the split ring. Keep final level of electrolyte below split ring, approximately ¾” below top of cell opening.
I opened up my battery box in the aircraft and found acid droplets around the top of my battery. What caused this?
1) A possible voltage spike causing battery to overcharge, creating excessive gassing.
2) Overfilling a cell or cells with electrolyte.
3) If it’s an older battery, it is possible to have several good cells and 1 or 2 with high resistance. The bad cells will tend to overheat during charge, resulting in excessive gassing and possible leakage.
4) Loose caps may cause acid leakage.
Can I charge my battery while aircraft is on ground?
Remove the battery from the aircraft. Gill does not recommend any on-board charging.
I have a 12 volt battery low in charge and one cell that is very low on electrolyte. When is the best time to add distilled water?
During the initial stages of charging is the best time to add distilled water. Battery voltage should read approximately 13 volts after the battery has had a chance to rest (open circuit) for 3-4 hours.
Is it OK to add electrolyte after the initial conditioning?
No. By doing so, you will alter the chemical balance in the cells, resulting in increased battery voltage and reduced battery life.
How often does Gill recommend changing batteries?
If properly serviced, your battery can give you several years of good service. However, we recommend changing your battery every 2 ½ years – 3 years.
Can I use automotive electrolyte in my battery?
No……not recommended! Automotive electrolyte is only 1.260 Specific Gravity. By using automotive electrolyte the battery will not function to it’s intended capacity because the cell electrolyte balance would not be up to the required levels. Gill electrolyte is 1.285 Specific Gravity. Warranty will be void if the proper specific gravity electrolyte is not used.
What is good battery voltage on a new fully charged battery?