Nanni N5.150, Operator'S Manual

Page: 79 / 104

79
ELECTROLYTE LEVEL CHECK
In general, detailed informations for service provided by
battery manufacturers are very scarce. As a conservative
rule, electrolyte level must always be above the top of
the lead plates (+/-1 cm - slighlty less than half of an
inch). Electrolyte is a mix of sulfuric acid and water. If
level is decreasing, acid concentration is not supposed
to deplete with evaporation. Water alone must be added,
but it is a good practice to check also the specific gravity
with a hydrometer. Follow these indications :
Unscrew completely the vent plugs and check level with
a flashlight in each and every orifice.
Use a syringe filled with distilled water to top up the
compartment where electrolyte level is too low.
Check gravity in each cell. A reading below 1.215 requires
either charging the battery or to replace it.
If the lead plates are not sulfated and still in good
condition, charging will improve specific gravity.
Specific Gravity Charge
1.260 100%
1.230 75
%
1.200 50%
1.170 25%
1.140
Very low capacity
1.110
Discharged
NOTE !
Never shake the battery during the process of adding
electrolyte !
If the battery electrolyte level cannot be adjusted
(maintenance free battery type), do not use or charge
the battery if the fluid level is below the lower limit level.
If the battery has been left unattended for an extended
period of time, it is likely that the battery has entered in
a deep discharge process. In such a case, voltage read
would be around 7 Volts or so. In such a case, it would
be very unlikely for the battery to recover and it is to fear
that any charge attempt will fail.
S08 MAINTENANCE
ALTERNATOR BELT
The engine alternator is driven by a belt through pulleys.
These components must be in good order at all times
in view for the alternator to provide electricity, among
others, to the engine, to the battery, to the engine control
panel.
DANGER !
Stop the engine and remove the key before checking or
servicing the alternator belt.
NOTE !
Always keep a spare replacement belt on-board.
IMPORTANT !
A loosen or damaged belt can result in overheats or lack
of alternator charge. A too tighten belt can damage the
bearings of the water pump and of the alternator.
VISUAL CHECK OF THE ALTERNATOR BELT:
If belt internal wires become visible and frayed, replace
it. Check that belt fits properly in the pulleys. Belt is
constantly put under tensioning device.