Page 1 of 1

? on polarizing

Posted: Mon May 03, 2010 7:02 am
by Russl
How long can the battery be disconnected before you have to polarize again?
Having trouble starting jeep, and I keep disconnecting battery when I have it on charge.
Or does it hurt to polarize the system every time the battery is reconnecte?
Thanks
Russl

Re: ? on polarizing

Posted: Mon May 03, 2010 7:20 am
by John
Russl-I don't think it will hurt it to re-polarize every time. You don't have to disconnect the battery if you are putting it on charge.

Are you sure your charging system is working? You shouldn't have to re-charge the battery all the time. If you do, try purchasing one of those battery minders, or trickle type chargers and you can leave it connected all the time when you aren't using your jeep. You might want to look at your battery condition or charging system.

John

Re: ? on polarizing

Posted: Mon May 03, 2010 7:38 am
by Russl
Thanks for the answer. Jeep is not running, also has a slight drain on battery if it's left connected. (still looking for that)
So that's the reason I disconnect it. Engine is not orginal to jeep (supersonic) with ford head.
Once again, thanks for the answer
Semper Fi
Russl

Re: ? on polarizing

Posted: Mon May 03, 2010 7:59 am
by John
Russl-You have some diagnostics to do! Try to disconnect your light wire(from ammeter), horn and gas tank wires. That should leave only the charging system connected and the ignition circuit. Use a test light and see if there is any drain. If there is, it's one of those two remaining systems. The ignition shouldn't have any power to the coil unless the key/toggle switch is on.

Odds are, it's a light circuit somewhere. Reconnect each circuit one at a time and test for battery drain each time. You'll find the culprit.

John

Re: ? on polarizing

Posted: Mon May 03, 2010 2:06 pm
by Cuz
Most times it's the starter foot switch that is your current leak.

As for re-polarizing it is not necessary. If you stop and think how many folks use a battery disconnect switch and just connect it and go. The need for polarization usually only occurs when the generator has been removed for repairs or when a reverse current has occured by crossing battery terminals.