Page 59 - Volume 14 Number 4

Figure 2: A jack pad inserts into the wheel assembly and any floor jack can be used to raise the tire off the ground.
battery from the airplane and do a slow charge overnight. If it is a flooded cell type, check the electrolyte levels and add distilled water to the cells that are low. If it is a sealed battery, you will probably need a replacement.
If you have a flooded cell battery it is easy to check the electrolyte levels before a trip. Remove the top cowl with a Phillips screwdriver and the battery cover with a 7/16-inch wrench or socket. Take care not to touch the battery posts with any tools. Wear eye protection and latex gloves. Unscrew the 12 black caps on the top of the battery, and set them away on a cloth, upside down.
Figure 3: Check the electrolyte levels on a flooded-cell battery by removing the top cowl and battery cover and remove the black caps on top of the battery.
Use a flashlight to look into the cell (see Figure 3). If the electrolyte is flat, it will need distilled water added. Use a hydrometer ($7 at an auto parts store) to drip a little water in at a time. When enough water has been added, the electrolyte in the cell will have curves like an eye.
In Figure 4, you can see the curve on the left side of the cell. It should be the same on the right side. If you are uncomfortable, get a mechanic to help you the first time. Typically, a flooded cell battery will need the electrolyte level checked every three months.
Volume 14, Number 4
COPA Pilot ■ 57