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Safety Precautions:
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When the engine is running, it produces carbon monoxide, a toxic and poisonous gas. Always operate the vehicle
in a well-ventilated area. Do not breathe exhaust gases
– they are hazardous and can lead to death.
•
To protect your eyes from propellant objects such as caustic liquids, always wear safety eye protection.
•
Fuel and battery vapors are highly flammable.
DO NOT SMOKE NEAR THE VEHICLE DURING TESTING.
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When engine is running, many parts (such as pulleys, coolant fan, belts, etc.) turn at high speed. To avoid
serious injury, always be alert and keep a safe distance from these parts.
•
Before starting the engine for testing or trouble shooting, always make sure the parking brake is firmly engaged.
Put the transmission in Park (automatic transmission) or Neutral (manual transmission).
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Always block the drive wheels. Never leave vehicle unattended while testing.
•
Never lay tools on vehicle battery. You may short the terminals together causing harm to yourself, the tools or
the battery.
•
Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry while working on engine. Loose clothing can get caught in fan, pulleys,
belts, etc. Jewelry can conduct current and can cause severe burns if it comes in contact between power source
and ground.
•
Always keep a fire extinguisher readily available and easily accessible in the workshop.
Working with Batteries:
•
Lead-acid batteries contain a sulfuric acid electrolyte, which is a highly corrosive poison and will produce gasses
when recharged and explode if ignited. It can hurt people badly.
•
When working with batteries, make sure you have plenty of ventilation, remove your hand jewelry, wear
protective eyewear (safety glasses) and clothing, and exercise caution.
•
Do not allow battery electrolyte to mix with salt water. Even small quantities of this combination will produce
chlorine gas that can KILL people!
•
Whenever possible, please follow the manufacturer's instructions for testing, jumping, installing, charging and
equalizing batteries.
•
Never disconnect a battery cable from a vehicle with the engine running, because the battery acts like a filter
for the electrical system.
•
Unfiltered [pulsating DC] electricity can damage expensive electronic components, e.g., emissions computer,
radio, charging system, etc.
•
Turn off all electrical switches and components; turn off the ignition before disconnecting the battery.
•
For non-sealed batteries, check the electrolyte level. Make sure it is covering the plates and it is not frozen
before starting to recharge (especially during winter).