Komatsu HM400-1, Manual

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OPERATION
COLD WEATHER OPERATION
BATTERY
WARNING
The battery generates flammable gas, so do not bring fire or sparks near the battery.
Battery electrolyte is dangerous. If it gets in your eyes or on your skin, wash it off with a large amount of water and consult a
doctor.
Battery electrolyte dissolves paint. If it gets on the bodywork, wash it off immediately with water.
If the battery electrolyte is frozen, do not charge the battery or start the engine with a different power source. There is danger
that the battery may explode.
Battery electrolyte is toxic, so do not let it flow into drainage ditches or spray it on to the ground surface.
When the ambient temperature drops, the capacity of the battery will also drop. If the battery charge ratio is low, the
battery electrolyte may freeze. Maintain the battery charge as close as possible to 100%, and insulate it against cold
temperature so that the machine can be started easily the next morning.
Measure the specific gravity and calculate the rate of charge from the following conversion table.
Temperature
(
°
C)
Charging
Rate (%)
20 0 -10 -20
100 1.28 1.29 1.30 1.31
90 1.26 1.27 1.28 1.29
80 1.24 1.25 1.26 1.27
75 1.23 1.24 1.25 1.26
When adding distilled water in cold weather, add it before starting operations in the morning to prevent the
electrolyte from freezing.
INSTALLATION OF RADIATOR CURTAIN
(If equipped)
If the display for the engine water temperature gauge does not enter the white range, install a radiator curtain.
It is possible to adjust the degree of opening of the radiator curtain (fully closed, one side open, and both sides open).
Adjust to a suitable condition to match the ambient temperature so that the engine water temperature gauge display
enters the white range.
PRECAUTIONS AFTER COMPLETION OF WORK
To prevent mud, water, or the undercarriage from freezing and making it impossible for the machine to move on the
following morning, always observe the following precautions.
Mud and water on the machine body should be completely removed. This is to prevent damage to the seal caused
by water in mud or dirt getting inside the seal and freezing.
Park the machine on hard, dry ground.
If this is impossible, park the machine on wooden boards.
The boards help protect the tracks from being frozen in soil and the machine can start next morning.
Open the drain valve and drain any water collected in the fuel system to prevent it from freezing.
As the battery capacity drops markedly in low temperatures, cover the battery or remove it from the machine,
keep it in a warm place, and install it again the next morning.
If the electrolyte level is low, add distilled water in the morning before beginning work. Do not add the water after
the day's work so as to prevent fluid in the battery from freezing during the night.
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