Page 49 - Demo

Page 49.Alvis Three Litre Shop Manual - T.A. 21 and T.C. 21ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENTBatteryAs the efficient functioning of the electrical equipment is dependent on the condition of the battery, it should receive regular inspection and attention.At least once a month the filler plugs should be removed and if necessary sufficient distilled water added to bring the electrolyte level with the tops of the separators, taking care to keep the top of the battery clean and dry and at the same time checking that the connections are clean and tight.If any electrolyte has been spilled, it must be replaced by a diluted sulphuric acid solution of the same specific gravity as the electrolyte in the cell to which it is to be added.A naked light must never be held near the fillers as there is a possible danger of igniting the gases given off from the plates.The best indication of the condition of the battery is the specific gravity of the electrolyte. It is advisable to check this point occasionally with a hydrometer. Each cell should give approximately the same reading which should not be taken immediately after topping up.Specific gravity readings and their indications are as follows:%u20141.280 - 1.300 Battery fully charged.About 1.210 Battery about half discharged.Below 1.150 Battery fully discharged.If the car is to be out of use for a time, have the battery fully charged and occasionally give it a short refreshing charge to prevent any tendency for the plates to become permanently sulphated. If the battery is to be stored for a long period entrust it to the care of a battery specialist.DynamoThe dynamo is of the compensated voltage control type, its output being controlled by the regulator unit located on the bulkhead.The lubrication of the dynamo is provided for by a lubricator which is screwed into the commutator end bracket. This should be unscrewed every 10,000 miles (16,000 km.), the felt pad and spring removed, the lubricator half filled with high melting point grease, and then replaced with the pad and spring in position.When lubricating the dynamo it is advisable to check and clean the brush gear and commutator. Slacken and slide back the metal cover band, and check that the brushes can slide freely in their holders by holding back the brush springs and pulling gently on the flexible connectors. If a brush is inclined to stick, remove it from its holder and clean its sides with a petrol moistened cloth. Take care to ensure that the brushes are replaced in their original positions and replace any excessively worn brushes.The commutator should be clean and polished; if not, clean it by pressing a petrol moistened cloth against it while the engine is rotated by hand.Dynamo lubricator