Arctic Cat ATV 250 Utility 2009 Service Manual Download Page 83

Page: 83 / 129

5-3

Battery

The battery is located under the seat.

After being in service, batteries require regular cleaning

and recharging in order to deliver peak performance and

maximum service life. The following procedure is rec-

ommended for cleaning and maintaining a sealed bat-

tery. Always read and follow instructions provided with

battery chargers and battery products.

1. Remove the battery hold-down; then disconnect

the battery cables (negative cable first).

2. Remove the battery from the battery compartment;

then thoroughly wash the battery and battery com-

partment with soap and water.

NOTE: If battery posts, cable ends, or the battery

case has a build-up of white/green powder resi-
due, apply water and baking soda to neutralize
acid; then flush off with warm soapy water.

3. Using a wire brush, clean the battery posts and

cable ends removing all corrosive buildup.

Replace damaged cables or cable ends.

4. Using a multimeter, test the battery voltage. The

meter must read at least 12.5 DC Volts for a fully

charged battery.

NOTE: At this point if the meter reads as speci-

fied, the battery may be returned to service (see
step 8).

5. If the meter reads less than specified voltage,

charge the battery using the following guidelines.

A. When using an automatic battery charger,

always follow the charger manufacturer’s

instructions.

B. When using a constant-current battery charger,

use the following Battery Charging Chart.

NOTE: If the battery voltage is 11.5 DC Volts or

less, some chargers may “cut off” and fail to
charge. If this occurs, connect a fully charged
booster battery in parallel (positive to positive and
negative to negative) for a short period of time
with the charger connected. After 10-15 minutes,
disconnect the booster battery leaving the charger
connected and the charger should continue to
charge. If the charger “cuts off,” replace the bat-
tery.

6. After charging the battery for the specified time,

remove the battery charger and allow the battery to

sit for 1-2 hours.

7. Connect the multimeter and test the battery volt-

age. The meter should read at least 12.5 DC Volts.

If the voltage is as specified, the battery is ready

for service.

NOTE: If voltage in step 7 is below specifications,

charge the battery an additional 1-5 hours; then
retest.

8. Place the battery in the battery compartment; then

coat the battery posts and cable ends with a light

coat of multi-purpose grease.

9. Connect the battery cables (positive cable first);

then install the battery hold-down.

! WARNING

Anytime service is performed on a battery, the follow-
ing must be observed: keep sparks, open flame, ciga-
rettes, or any other flame away. Always wear safety
glasses. Protect skin and clothing when handling a
battery. When servicing battery in enclosed space,
keep the area well-ventilated.

! CAUTION

Do not remove seal strip.

! WARNING

Battery acid is harmful if it contacts eyes, skin, or
clothing. Care must be taken whenever handling a bat-
tery.

! CAUTION

Never exceed the standard charging rate.

! WARNING

An overheated battery could explode causing severe
injury or death. Always monitor charging times and
charge rates carefully. Stop charging if the battery
becomes very warm to the touch. Allow it to cool
before resuming charging.

Battery Charging Chart (Constant-Current Charger)

Battery Voltage

(DC)

Charge

State

Charge Time Required

(at 1.5-2.0 Amps)

12.5 or more

100%

None

12.2-12.4

75%-99%