Navistar WorkStar Series, Operator'S Manual

Page: 118 / 258

Operation
Alternator
CAUTION
Before connecting a fast charger or booster
battery, or installing a new battery, make sure
that the ground polarities of the fast charger,
booster battery, or alternator (when installing a
battery) are matched to the ground polarity of the
vehicle battery. Improper usage of fast charger,
hook-up of booster battery, or installing battery
can cause damage to the electrical system or
to the alternator. Do not attempt to polarize the
alternator.
Many alternators used in International® vehicles are of the
self-energizing type.
Some engines may need to be briefly
revved after starting to turn on the alternator. The alternator will
then charge at idle. If the vehicle is to be warmed up prior to
beginning operation, the operator should observe the voltmeter
or ammeter for charging indication before leaving the vehicle.
Ammeter
The optional ammeter indicates the rate of charge of electric
current supplied by the alternator to the battery, or the rate of
discharge from the battery. At low engine speeds, the ammeter
indicator may show a negative or discharge reading. When the
battery is fully charged, a very slight charge is indicated during
normal vehicle operation.
Battery
WARNING
Keep lighted tobacco, flames, sparks or other
ignition sources away from the batteries.
Gas
from the battery cells is flammable and can
ignite and/or explode.
This is particularly true
when jumper cables are being used. Battery
fires or explosions could cause personal injury,
including severe injury to the face, eyes, limbs
and body.
In addition, inhaling the hydrogen gas produced
by the normal operation of the battery could
result in partial or permanent damage to the
respiratory system which may result in death.
WARNING
Whenever disconnecting battery terminals,
always disconnect ground terminal first. When
reconnecting, always connect ground terminal
last. Failure to follow this procedure could result
in a short-to-ground and cause property damage,
personal injury, or death.
Always wear eye protection when working
around batteries. Do not attempt to jump-start a
vehicle with a frozen battery because the battery
may rupture or explode.
If a frozen battery is
suspected, thaw out battery and recharge.
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