How to test the condition of the batteries on a Simpro Dumpmaster bin lifter.
Battery-powered Dumpmasters are supplied with sealed gel-type batteries, mounted below the power pack. Depending on the amount of usage, the battery will normally have a life of 3 - 5 years; if used continuously, or not maintained correctly, the life may be reduced.
Note that older-model machines may have a conventional wet-cell battery, or the original battery may have been replaced with one. Simpro recommends that ONLY deep-cycle gel batteries are fitted.
Test Procedure
If the battery is in a separate hinge-out tray below the main inner panel, undo the retaining bolt and open the tray. If the inner panel is one piece down to the base frame, remove the outer power-pack cover, but leave the loom connected, and sit the cover to one side. Measure the battery voltage with a multimeter with the charger disconnected. Plug the charger in, and measure the voltage again after 2 or 3 minutes. Disconnect the charger, wait approx. 1 minute then measure the voltage again. Finally, measure it while pressing the RAISE button, ideally both with no load and then with a full bin.
Interpreting the results
- If the voltage increases when the charger is connected, but drops fairly quickly to the operating voltage (12 or 24 v depending on the model), or less when it is disconnected, the battery probably needs replacing.
- If the voltage does not increase when the charger is connected, the charger is probably faulty (See separate document for checking the charger)
- If the voltage drops more than 1.5 volts when the Raise button is pressed with no load on the cradle, or below 80% of the operating voltage with a full bin, the battery probably needs replacing.
- If you are unsure, or if the battery is less than 1 year old, return it to your battery supplier for testing
If the battery will not hold sufficient charge, and is at least two years old, it is probably due for replacement - see the replacement procedure here. The problem could also be a faulty battery charger - see the battery charger test procedure here.