The test cables that come with your analyzer are consumable items. Cables are like tires in that the more you use them and the harder you drive them, the shorter their useful life. Here are a few things you can do to protect your test cables from damage and premature wear.
Cleaning Clamps
- The grease, dirt, and sulfation that build up on battery terminals are highly corrosive and can damage the clamps over time. Before connecting the clamps, ensure accurate test readings and protect the clamps by cleaning the battery terminals using a wire brush and a mixture of water and baking soda.
- Periodically clean the clamps using a mixture of water and baking soda, or a mild hand soap, and a small bristle brush.
- To protect the clamps from oil and dirt, clip to the to Clamp Tab on the back of the analyzer.
Handling Test Cables
- Always connect and disconnect the clamps to the battery by opening and closing the clamps. Never pull on the test cables to remove the battery clamps. Pulling can damage the Y-junction, the cables, and the clamps to an extent that they analyzer may produce lower-than-expected conductance readings or fail completely.
- Never carry the analyzer by the cables. Carrying the analyzer or swinging it by the cables puts unnecessary strain on the cables and can result in premature failure. Handle the analyzer with care to get the maximum use from the product.
Storing Test Cables
- Never wrap the cables around the analyzer; this puts unnecessary strain on the test cables.
Because the test cables are the “tires” of the analyzer, they have a certain life expectancy and will eventually wear out. However, the abuse examples cited above are not covered under warranty. To ensure the best performance and longest life of the test cables, attach and remove them with care, and carry the analyzer and cables together.
If an inspection or a change in test results indicate that the test cables need to be replaced, call Midtronics Customer Service at 1-800-776-1995.