Figs. 1,169 and 1,170.—The "National" storage battery; views showing methods of assembling cells. Fig 1,169, end assembling; fig 1,170, side assembling.
Ques. How should weak cells be treated?
Ans. They should be grouped by themselves and charged as a separate battery, care being taken that the positive strap of one cell, is connected to the negative strap of the adjoining cell and that the charging connections are properly made. If there be not sufficient resistance in the charging rheostat to reduce the current to the proper point, a water resistance should be used.
NOTE.—Pole testing paper. Make a thin solution of white starch and soak strips of thin white blotting paper in it, and set aside in a clean, dry place to dry. Dissolve ½ oz. of potassium iodide in one pint of water. Immerse the strips in the solution for a few seconds and again dry. This paper, when moistened and used in the usual way, turns violet at the positive pole.
While a cell is being treated, when possible, the cover should be removed (if sealed, the compound can be loosened by using a hot putty knife).
Figs. 1,171 to 1,177.—"National" battery bolt connector and parts. The connector is equipped with grease cups and antimonious lead washers.