Itasca latitude 37G, Manual

Page: 68 / 135

SECTION 6 –
ELECTRICAL
6-8
energy is removed from the battery, it should be
replaced by the engine alternator or the RV
converter system.
If a battery sits unused for 30 days or more,
especially during warm weather, it can develop a
deposit of sulfate crystals on the metal plates
inside the battery. This condition is called
‘sulfating’ and prevents the battery from either
releasing or accepting a charge. If this condition
occurs, the battery must be replaced.
If a battery does not contain at least 80%
charge during freezing temperatures, the
electrolyte can freeze and crack the battery case.
The two best defenses against sulfating
and insufficient charge are to:
1. Turn off the Auxiliary Battery Disconnect
(Aux Batt) switch to avoid parasitic discharge
(the trickle discharge caused by directly
connected components like propane gas
detectors or digital clock displays, etc.)
2. Check the battery and recharge as necessary at
least once a month during long storage
periods. Turn the Aux Batt Switch off to avoid
electrical arcing when attaching or detaching
charger clamps.
NOTE: We do not recommend leaving the
shoreline plugged in continuously during
storage periods because the batteries
can lose electrolytic fluids and become
damaged from continuous charging
without periodic use or maintenance.
We recommend following regular battery
inspection and maintenance, especially
in cold weather.
Further precautions are:
• Remove the battery from the coach.
• Store it in a cool place on a wooden or rubber
pad to inhibit conductive transfer.
• Check the state of charge periodically to avoid
discharge or sulfating.
To ensure that the battery will always accept
and hold a charge, follow these simple
maintenance practices.
• Make sure the batteries always remain
securely clamped in the battery tray.
• Make sure battery cable clamps are tight on
the terminal posts and are free of corrosion.
• Neutralize corrosion buildup or acid film on
top of battery by washing with a baking soda/
water solution. Rinse with clear water.
NOTE: Make sure vent caps are on securely to
prevent baking soda solution from
entering the battery and contaminating
the electrolyte fluid.
• Clean and tighten battery terminals and have
the specific gravity checked at least once a
year.
• Check the battery fluid level every month, or
more often in hot weather. Fill to
approximately 3/8 inch above the plates. DO
WARNING
California Proposition 65 Warning:
Battery posts, terminals and related
accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the
state of California to cause cancer and
reproductive harm. Wash hands after
handling.
WARNING
Before removing any battery cables or
battery, make sure all 12-volt equipment
in the motor home is off and the power
cord has been disconnected.
Be sure to replace the battery terminal
boot, if supplied, back onto the positive
terminal after servicing. Care must be
taken to avoid pinching the cable between
any metal parts. Should the cable be
damaged, a short circuit could result in
personal injury or damage to equipment.
Replace any damaged cables at once.
Always remove jewelry and wear
protective clothing and eye covering
when checking or handling batteries.