How to test your Camaro, Firebird, Fiero, 12 volt Battery

There are several ways to test the Battery.
In the real world, most Home mechanics don't have all the tools that are ideal for doing testing.
For all practical purposes if the Battery has been sitting undisturbed for a few hours, and if the battery will start the car easily,
it is most likely in good enough condition to provide the current needed for the vehicle to operate properly.
However, the voltage may still be low. Voltage must be checked.

Ways to test the Battery:

1. Specific Gravity test using a temperature compensating hydrometer.
2. Load test using a high quality Load Tester.
3. Voltage Test using a Digital Multi-meter.

Most home mechanics have a Digital Multi-meter.
This is a basic tool for any home mechanic. Using the Digital Multi-meter, test the voltage at the Battery. Refer to the diagram below.

Note: Specific Gravity test reading should not exceed 0.05 difference between cells.
Voltage reading of 10.5 usually indicates a shorted cell.

To properly test the Battery, it should be fully charged.
It is still ideal to charge the Battery, remove the surface charge, and then test it to make sure it is in good condition.
However, the tests above are usually sufficient to gauge the condition of the battery.

Load testing: Most battery manufactures label their battery with the amp load for testing. This number is usually 1/2 of the CCA rating.
For instance, a 550CCA battery would load test at 275 amps for 15 seconds. A load test can only be performed if the battery is near or at full charge.

Don't forget to also do the Voltage drop test after testing the Battery.