7.0 VEHICLE STORAGE (over 6 weeks)
7.1 BATTERY PREPARATION
Before storage make sure batteries are fully charged and the electrolyte is full in all cells per Section 4.2.
Clean the batteries and connections per Section 4.3.
The Delta-Q charger has the capability to test and recharge batteries during storage. Leave the batteries
connected and the Delta-Q charger plugged into a reliable AC source.
If the Delta-Q is not used:
Batteries will "self-discharge
” during storage and recharging will be necessary. Table B indicates the
frequency for recharging.
TABLE B
STORAGE TEMPERATURE
CHARGE AT
Below 4
0
C (40
0
F)
Every 6 months
4
0
C - 16
0
C (40
0
– 60
0
F)
Every 2 months
Above 16
0
C (60
0
F)
Once a month
The specific gravity of the electrolyte should be checked every 6 to 8 weeks using a hydrometer. See
Section 4.7 for further details.
The batteries should be recharged to a specific gravity of approximately 1.260 sp. gr.
After charging, disconnect the battery pack. See Section 4.9.
Batteries in a low state of charge will freeze at higher temperatures than fully charged batteries.
Do not attempt to charge a battery that is frozen or if battery case is excessively bulged.
Properly dispose of battery, because frozen batteries can explode
.
Table C indicates freezing points of batteries at different specific gravities.
NOTICE:
Specific gravity readings are at 80
0
F. Values need adjustment for electrolyte
temperature. Reduce .004 for every 10
0
F below 80
0
F. Increase by that amount for every 10
0
F
above.
Vehicles with single point watering system, quarterly during storage check water levels per Section 4.11.
7.2 VEHICLE PREPARATION
Store the vehicle in a cool place.
Maintain tire pressure. See Section 1.5.
Grease suspension and continue quarterly lubrication during storage period.
Clean vehicle body, seats, battery compartment and vehicle underside.
Do not engage park brake. Block wheels to prevent movement.
NOTICE: M
ake sure power keyswitch is in the OFF position.
TABLE C
SPECIFIC GRAVITY
FREEZE POINT
O
F/
O
C
1.260
-70/-57
1.230
-39/-38
1.200
-16/-26
1.117
-2/-19
1.110
+17/-8
7-1
