Monaco SIGNATURE 2001 series, Owner'S Manual

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Deep cycle batteries are best suited for use with 12 volt operated lights,
appliances and inverters. Deep cycle batteries are designed to have a majority
of their capacity used before being recharged. These are available in many
sizes and types. The most common is a non-sealed, liquid electrolyte battery.
The non-sealed types have battery caps. The caps should be removed periodi-
cally to check the level of electrolyte. When a cell is low, only distilled water
should be added. Water consumption will vary depending on many factors:
how far the batteries are depleted, how long the voltage is being applied to
charge the batteries, how much voltage is used and how often this occurs.
NOTE: Tap water contains minerals which can alter battery
chemistry and ruin the battery. Use only distilled water when refill-
ing the battery.
At a minimum, the battery electrolyte level should be
checked at least once a month. Check the level sooner if the
battery is frequently used. The level should be above the top
of the plates, but not overfull. Most batteries have a plastic
cup or well. The electrolyte level should be approximately
3/8” below the well to allow room for expansion while the
battery is being charged. Over-filling the battery will allow the
electrolyte solution to boil or gas out of the battery cap.
Remember to use only distilled water to refill the battery. A
battery with a low electrolyte level will boil the water out rap-
idly once the plates have been exposed to air. This process
may take only a matter of hours. If this has happened the bat-
tery is more than likely damaged.
After checking the battery’s electrolyte levels it is also a
good idea to check the battery connections for tightness and
corrosion. If any corrosion is found disconnect the cables
(make sure to mark their locations) and carefully clean them
with a mild solution of baking soda and water. There are also
aerosol products available that will work. This will neutralize
any acid that may be present. Do not allow the solution to
enter the battery as this will damage the electrolyte balance.
Use water to rinse the top of the battery and surrounding area when done.
Carefully hook the cables back to the battery. Coat the terminals with petro-
leum jelly or an anticorrsion grease.
The battery cable to battery terminal connections should be metal to
metal. Periodically check the batteries for corrosion. Look for cracks and
check the vent plugs. Replace them if they are cracked or missing. Keep the
top of the batteries clean. The accumulation of electrolyte and dirt may per-
mit small amounts of current to flow between the terminals, which can drain
the battery.
Electrical Systems - House
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S I G N A T U R E 8 • 2 1 2
Deep Cycle
Battery
Battery Maintenance
The Chassis Battery (1) and the Domestic Batteries ( 2) ,
located within the Battery Storage Compartment.
2
1