Connecting a Charger to a Battery: Positive Side Matching

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the proper connection of a charger to a battery, specifically focusing on ensuring that the positive terminals are matched during the charging process. The context includes practical advice for a motorcycle mini-bike charging scenario.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks if the positive side of the charger should be connected to the positive side of the battery when charging.
  • Another participant confirms that the positive side should indeed be connected to the positive side, drawing a parallel to the process of jump-starting a dead battery.
  • A different participant expresses confusion about the connection direction when charging versus drawing power, indicating a misunderstanding that they later clarify.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of correctly reattaching wires to avoid damage and suggests using a Fluke to identify the positive side.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the positive side of the charger should connect to the positive side of the battery. However, there are nuances in understanding the connection process, particularly regarding the direction of current flow during charging versus discharging.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the implications of incorrect connections and the importance of following manufacturer instructions, which may not have been fully addressed in the discussion.

nutsandbolts
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My son pulled the wires off of the charging plug for his motorcycle (mini-bike).
I can use a Fluke to determine what side is positive coming from the charger, and trace the positive side from the battery to the charging socket.
My question is when charging do I connect the positive side of the charger to the positive side of the battery?
 
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nutsandbolts said:
My son pulled the wires off of the charging plug for his motorcycle (mini-bike).
I can use a Fluke to determine what side is positive coming from the charger, and trace the positive side from the battery to the charging socket.
My question is when charging do I connect the positive side of the charger to the positive side of the battery?

Welcome to the PF.

Yes, that is how you connect a charger. Just think about how you jump start a dead battery...
 
Confirm what Bman states...yes
 
Thank you. My original thought was that when connected and power is drawn out then the battery is connected positive to positive and negative to the frame. If I then want to put power back in then I need to go in the oposite direction, WRONG again.
I understand your explanation of jumping a flat battery.
My only other question is "Where is my soldering iron"? or better still "how do I keep my teenage sons away from my tools"? You can't help with these questions, but thanks for your help with the polarity issue.
 


Yes, it is important to connect the positive side of the charger to the positive side of the battery when charging. This ensures that the electrical current flows in the correct direction and charges the battery properly. If the wires were pulled off the charging plug, it is important to make sure they are reattached correctly to avoid any potential damage to the battery or the charger. Using a Fluke to determine the positive side can help ensure the correct connection. It is always important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when charging any type of battery to ensure proper and safe charging.
 

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