         
When troubleshooting an electrical system, first verify that the battery is OK and properly charged! If appropriate, check fluid levels. If battery needs water add clean distilled/deionized water. Set meter to DC volts, and check voltage with key, engine, and accessories off. If below roughly 12.2, charge battery, then remove charger for remaining tests. Turn on headlights for 1 minute to drain battery surface charge. Measure voltage with headlights on and with them off. Difference on the reading should be less than .5 volt, if drop is several volts, the battery has failed and should be replaced. Turn off headlights and crank engine. If engine cranks, battery terminal voltage should stay above 9.6 volts while cranking (slightly lower voltages acceptable in the cold weather) If engine cranks briskly and voltage stays above 9.6 during 15 second crank, battery is OK. Check battery hold-down. Excess vibration harms batteries. Source: Demax Corporation St. Joseph, MI 
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