B
MAINTENANCE
Read all of SAFETY and this section before attempting any procedure. Pay particular attention to Notices, Cautions, Warnings and Dangers.
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Owner’s Guide
Always wear a safety shield or approved safety goggles when you add
water or charge the batteries.
Neutralize electrolyte spills with a solution of 2 teaspoons (10 ml) sodium
bicarbonate (baking soda) mixed in 1 quart (1 liter) of water. Clean with
water.
If you fill the batteries with electrolyte above the maximum level, you can
cause an electrolyte spill during the charge cycle. An electrolyte spill can cause damage to the
vehicle and storage facility.
Be careful when you use aerosol containers near the battery terminals. Use a container with insu-
lation to prevent an explosion.
Use wrenches with insulation to decrease the risk of a short-circuit if a wrench falls across the bat-
tery terminals. A battery short-circuit can cause an explosion.
Battery Disposal
Lead-acid batteries are recyclable. Return used batteries to distributor, manufacturer or lead smelter for recycling. For
neutralized spills, put residue in acid-resistant containers with absorbent material, sand or earth and discard according to
state and federal regulations for acid and lead compounds. Contact state environmental officials for disposal information.
Battery
A battery is described as two dissimilar metals immersed in an acid. If the acid is absent or if the metals are not dissimi-
lar, a battery has not been created. The batteries in this vehicle are lead acid.
A battery does not store electricity, but it can produce electricity as the result of a chemical reaction which releases stored
chemical energy in the form of electrical energy. The chemical reaction occurs faster in warm conditions and slower in
cold conditions. Temperature is important when conducting tests on a battery and test results must be corrected to adjust
for temperature differences.
An older battery can perform adequately except that its capacity is decreased. Capacity describes the time that a battery
can continue to supply its design amperes from a full charge.
A battery has a maximum life. Good maintenance maximizes the available life and decreases the conditions that can
decrease the life of the battery.
Battery Maintenance
Tool List
Quantity
Tool List
Quantity
Insulated Wrench, 9/16" .............................................. 1
Battery Carrier............................................................. 1
Hydrometer.................................................................. 1
Battery Maintenance Kit P/N 25587G01 ..................... 1
Battery Protective Spray.............................................. 1
Socket, 9/16” ............................................................... 1
Torque Wrench ............................................................ 1
At Each Charging Cycle
•
Before you charge the batteries, inspect the plug of the battery charger and vehicle receptacle housing for dirt or
other particles.
•
Charge the batteries after each use.
Monthly
•
Inspect all wires for wear, loose connections, corrosion or damage of insulation.
•
Make sure that the electrolyte level is correct and add clean water as required.
•
Clean the batteries and wire connections.
•
Apply battery protectant to the battery terminals.
