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MAINTENANCE
Read all of SAFETY and this section before attempting any procedure. Pay particular attention to Notices, Cautions, Warnings and Dangers.
Owner’s Guide
The electrolyte in a battery is an acid solution which can cause severe burns to the skin and eyes.
Clean all electrolyte spills to the body and eyes with clear water. Contact a physician immediately.
To clean an electrolyte spill, use a solution of 2 teaspoons (10 ml) sodium
bicarbonate (baking soda) mixed with 1 quart (1 liter) of water.
Always wear a safety shield or approved safety goggles when you add
water or charge the batteries.
Battery Cleaning
To prevent battery damage, make sure you correctly install all battery caps.
To decrease the risk of damage to vehicle or floor, neutralize acid before you spray the battery with water.
To decrease the risk of damage to the electrical components while cleaning, do not use a pressure washer.
Clean the batteries according to the Periodic Service Schedule.
When you clean the battery cases and terminals, do not use a water hose without neutralizing any acid deposits first. The
water hose moves the acid from the top of the batteries to another area of the vehicle or storage facility, where it can
cause damage. After spraying the batteries, a conductive residue remains on the batteries and contributes to the dis-
charge of the batteries
The correct cleaning method is to spray the top and sides of the batteries with a solution of baking soda and water. Apply
this solution with a plastic spray bottle. The solution is 2 teaspoons (10 ml) sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) mixed with
1 quart (1 liter) of water. Spray the solution on all metal components near the batteries also.
Allow the solution to set a minimum of three minutes. Use a soft bristle brush or cloth to clean the top of each battery to
remove residue that can cause the discharge of the battery. Clean the area with low pressure clear water.
Be careful when you use aerosol containers near the battery terminals. Use a container with insu-
lation to prevent an explosion.
Clean one time a month or more often in harsh conditions. After the batteries are clean and dry, apply a commercially
available protectant to the terminals.
1 quart (1 liter)
Clear Water
2 teaspoons (10 ml)
Sodium Bicabonate
(Baking Soda)
Plastic Spray
Bottle
Preparing Acid Neutralizing Solution
