Clark ESX Series, Operator'S Manual

Page: 97 / 108

Section 6. Planned Maintenance
6.27
Battery Cleaning and Care
Never wash the battery when it is in the
truck. The easiest and most satisfactory
method of cleaning a battery is to wash
it occasionally with a low-pressure cold-
water spray.
The top can also be washed off with a solution of baking soda and water
(add a box of baking soda to a pail of water and stir until dissolved)
and rinsed with clean water. It is good practice to have this solution in
a battery room at all times.
IMPORTANT
During cleaning, the battery vent caps must be tightly
in place.
Refer to the battery manufacturer or supplier for their recommended
battery maintenance and care procedures.
BATTERY SAVER and CLEANER, CLARK Part No. 886398, may be
used to clean and protect the truck battery.
New Truck Batteries: Apply a light coat of BATTERY SAVER and
CLEANER to entire surface of battery. Allow to set for approximately
30 seconds, then wipe thoroughly with a wiping cloth or rag. Chemical
action will dissolve rust and corrosion. After cleaning, apply a second
coating for protection. This will prevent the start and growth of corrosion
on battery terminals and cable connections.
Battery Service Records
Keep a record of battery service and maintenance to obtain the best
service life from your battery and truck. Select a pilot cell, take read-
ings of specifi c gravity and temperature before and after charging, and
record the readings with the date. It is best to change the location of the
pilot cell occasionally to distribute any electrolyte loss over the battery.
Every 2 or 3 months, take complete battery readings (specifi c gravity,
temperature, and voltage) and make a record of them.
How to Get Maximum Battery Life
1. Follow normal battery maintenance procedures, re-charging before
80% discharged and with periodic equalizing charges.
Battery Cleaning and Care • Battery Service Records