Ezgo Valor, Owner'S Manual

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M
AINTENANCE
37
BATTERY
A battery is described as two dissimilar metals immersed in an acid. If the acid is absent or if the metals are not dis -
similar, 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 cor -
rected to adjust for temperature differences.
An older battery can perform adequately except that its capacity is decreased. Capacity describes the time that a bat
-
tery 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
reduce the life of the battery.
Use insulated wrenches to prevent direct contact of a wrench with the battery terminals.
Direct contact of a bare wrench with battery terminals can cause an explosion resulting
in severe injury or death.
To prevent the risk of battery explosion, keep all flammable materials, open flames or
sparks away from the batteries.
Hydrogen gas is made as batteries are charged. Do not charge batteries without good
ventilation. A 4% concentration of hydrogen gas is explosive.
Make sure that the key switch is in the OFF position and all electrical accessories are off
before you start to work on the vehicle.
Be careful when you use aerosol containers near the battery terminals. Use a container
with insulation to prevent an explosion.
Turn off all accessories before disconnecting from the battery terminal.
Always wear a safety shield or approved safety goggles when you add water or charge
the batteries.
The electrolyte in a battery is an acid solution which can cause burns to the skin and
eyes. Completely clean all electrolyte spills that contact the body and eyes with clear
water. Contact a physician immediately.
Do not tilt the batteries during removal or installation. An electrolyte spill can cause
burns and damage.
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.
Use safe procedures to move the batteries. Always lift the battery with a commercially
available battery lifting device.
NOTICE: 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.
BATTERY DISPOSAL
Return used batteries to the manufacturer or lead smelter for recycling purposes. For neutralized spills, put residue in
acid-resistant containers with an absorbent material such as sand. Dispose in accordance with state and federal regu -
lations for acid and lead compounds. Contact authorized environmental agencies for information about disposal.