37
2. Thoroughly wash the battery with
soap and water.
NOTE: If battery posts or cable
ends have a build-up of white/green
powder residue, 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 dam-
aged cables or cable ends.
4. On a standard battery, add clean dis-
tilled water to bring fluid level to the
UPPER level line.
5. Using a multimeter, test the battery
voltage. The meter must read no less
than 12.5 DC Volts for a fully
charged battery.
NOTE: At this point if the meter
reads as specified, the battery may
be returned to service (see step 9).
6. 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 char-
ger manufacturer’s instructions.
B. When using a constant-current
battery charger, use the follow-
ing 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, dis-
connect the booster battery leaving
the charger connected and the char-
ger should continue to charge. If the
charger “cuts off,” replace the battery.
7. After charging the battery for the
specified time, remove the battery
charger and allow the battery to sit
for 1-2 hours.
8. Connect the multimeter and test the
battery voltage. The meter should
read no less than 12.5 DC Volts. If
the voltage is as specified, the bat-
tery is ready for service.
NOTE: If voltage in step 8 is below
specifications, charge the battery an
additional 1-5 hours; then retest.
Recheck electrolyte level (standard
battery) and the battery is ready for
service.
9. Place the battery into position in the
snowmobile; then coat the battery
posts and cable ends with a light
coat of multi-purpose grease.
CAUTION
Do not remove seal strip on a sealed
battery.
! WARNING
Battery acid is harmful if it contacts
eyes, skin, or clothing. Care must be
taken whenever handling a battery.
CAUTION
Never use electrolyte (sulfuric acid)
to “top off” the battery. Use only dis-
tilled water or severe battery damage
may occur.
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 (mini-
mum)
100%
None
12.2-12.4
75%-99%
3-6 hours
12.0-12.2
50%-74%
5-11 hours
11.0-11.9
25%-49% 13 hours (minimum)
11.5 or less
0-24%
20 hours (minimum)
