Batteries are an integral part of specialized vehicles, including tow trucks, where they play a crucial role despite their unobtrusive presence. They are essential for starting the vehicle, powering the lights, and operating all interior electrical equipment. Generally, there are two types of batteries on the market: traditional lead-acid batteries and maintenance-free batteries. Let us explore the usage and maintenance of tow truck batteries.
Types of Batteries
1. Lead-Acid Batteries:
Lead-acid batteries consist of several key components:
Positive and Negative Plates: These are immersed in an electrolyte solution, usually sulfuric acid.
Separators: These prevent the plates from short-circuiting.
Casing: This holds the internal components and electrolyte.
Terminal Posts: These connect the battery to the vehicle’s electrical system.
The chemical reaction responsible for discharging relies on the active materials of the positive and negative plates in the electrolyte. The grid plates are made from lead-antimony alloy. Traditional batteries experience liquid reduction during use because antimony from the grid contaminates the lead on the negative plate, leading to excessive water decomposition, with oxygen and hydrogen gas escaping from the plates, reducing the electrolyte.
2. Maintenance-Free Batteries:
Maintenance-free batteries are made from lead-calcium alloy. This type has several advantages:
Minimal Water Decomposition: Lead-calcium grids reduce water loss during charging.
Sealed Casing: Releases very little sulfuric acid gas, reducing corrosion.
No Additional Fluids Required: Simplifies maintenance.
Strong Overcharge Resistance: Better tolerance to overcharging.
High Starting Current: Provides reliable engine starts.
Long Power Storage: Retains charge well over time.
These features have made maintenance-free batteries increasingly popular in recent years.
Battery Maintenance
Regardless of the type of battery, prolonged use leads to gradual self-discharge until they eventually fail. Here are some tips for proper maintenance:
1. Regular Charging:
During Inactivity: Start the vehicle occasionally to recharge the battery during long periods of inactivity.
Battery Switch: Use a battery switch to prevent unnecessary discharge when the vehicle is not in use.
2. Monitoring Charge Levels:
Instrument Panel: The battery charge level is displayed on the instrument panel in the tow truck‘s cabin.
Low Charge: When the ammeter indicates a low charge, recharge the battery promptly.
3. Starting the Vehicle:
Avoid Continuous Attempts: Continuously attempting to start the engine can cause excessive discharge and damage the battery.
Intermittent Starting: When the vehicle struggles to start, start the vehicle intermittently to protect the battery.
4. Terminal Inspection:
Check for Oxidation: Regularly inspect for oxidation on the positive and negative terminals.
Address Anomalies: Clean and address any anomalies promptly to ensure good electrical connection.
Conclusion
The proper maintenance of tow truck batteries is essential for ensuring reliable operation. Whether using traditional lead-acid batteries or maintenance-free batteries, it is important to monitor charge levels, perform regular maintenance, and avoid practices that can lead to excessive discharge. By following these guidelines, tow truck operators can maximize battery lifespan and ensure their vehicles are always ready for service. Regular inspections and prompt attention to any issues will keep the tow truck battery in optimal condition, supporting the vehicle’s critical functions.
