Axis A20, Owner'S Manual

Page: 165 / 216

Axis
Owners
Manual
2019
Page 154
Because batteries contain fluid that is caustic and
potentially dangerous to skin and body
parts, boat operators need to ensure
that the batteries are securely in place.
Also, if the connections are loose,
erroneous readings may be sent to the
boat system, which can cause running
and functionality problems. To avoid
becoming stranded during an outing, it
is important to have accurate voltage
readings throughout the period of time
the boat is in use.
To check the batteries, be sure the
engine is OFF.
Locate the batteries. While they will
be in different places depending on the boat model,
usually they are found under the observer seat. Check your Quick Reference Guide in this Owner’s
Manual to determine the location.
If the posts show signs of corrosion or other debris, remove the battery and clean carefully.
To do so, follow these steps:
Turn the engine OFF, as well as any systems that are operating on the boat.
Make sure the battery switch is in the OFF position.
Loosen and remove the negative (-) black terminal connection first. If you are using a wrench
for this process, be careful to avoid touching the positive (+) red terminal connection as you may
receive an electrical shock as a result.
Next, loosen and remove the positive (+) red terminal connection.
Disconnect the hold-downs that are holding the battery in place.
Remove the battery.
Using a battery terminal cleaner, carefully clean the corrosion/debris from the battery posts.
Using a baking-soda-and-water mix, clean the battery case, taking care to avoid splashing
any of the solution inside the battery vents. Rinse with clear water, again, avoiding the vents.
Inside the battery is an electrolyte fluid that allows the chemical
reaction to provide power. The fluid is comprised of several
components, one of which is sulfuric acid. As with most acids, this is
caustic and corrosive. If it comes in contact with skin, immediately
flush the area with copious amounts of fresh, clean water. Follow up with medical assistance.
A battery terminal brush may be necessary to remove corrosion from the inside of the
battery terminals. Use the same type of baking-soda-and-water mix and rinse with fresh water.
Dry with a clean rag.
Check the box in which the battery is held to be certain that is not showing signs of corrosion
or dirt. Clean, if necessary, as with the above instructions for cleaning the battery. Be sure that
the holding box is dry prior to reinstalling the battery.
Repeat with the steps with the second battery.
After placing the battery back in the holding box, reconnect the hold-down. Then reconnect
the positive (+) red battery cable connection first. Follow with the negative (-) black battery
cable connection.
Tighten both terminals and then coat with a thin covering of marine dielectric grease. Be sure
that the positive terminal rubber boot completely covers the terminal.
If it becomes necessary to re-charge a battery from an external source,
DO NOT attempt to charge using automotive battery cables or use
another boat battery as the source for charging. Some amounts of
hydrogen gas are emitted during the charging process. This can be very
dangerous. It is critical to keep all sparks, including smoking cigarettes, lighters or any type of flame,
well away from a charging battery. Use the optional battery charger sold by authorized Axis dealers,
check the
battery holders
and the
connections