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ELECTRICAL
Storing The Batteries
Remember that when batteries are not used for an
extended period of time, they may lose their charge.
Periodic charging of the batteries during storage of
the unit will increase the life of the battery. Check the
external condition of the battery periodically. Look for
cracks in the cover.
The batteries should be removed and stored in a warm
place when not using your motorhome for an extended
period of time. This will prevent unnecessary drain and
corrosion of the batteries. The coach batteries are 6 volt
RV/Marine deep cycle batteries. Mark the cables, positive
and negative, for easy identification. Batteries are not to
be stored on concrete floors.
Preventing Corrosion
Newmar sprays the battery connections once they are
tightened with a battery protector and sealer to help
prevent corrosion. When performing battery maintenance,
you should reseal the battery terminal connections. The
following measures may also prevent future corrosion:
Use a small bead of silicone sealer at the base of the
post where it meets the battery case. Place a felt battery
washer over the post and into the bead of silicone. Coat
the washer with high temperature grease or petroleum
jelly (Vaseline), then place the cable on the post and
tighten. Coat the exposed cable end with the grease. The
gas condensation on metal parts of the battery cause
most corrosion issues.
Common Causes Of Premature
Battery Failure
•
Deep discharges (leaving your lights on)
•
Misapplication
•
Replacement using an undersized battery not
meeting Newmar’s OEM specifications
•
Loss of electrolyte due to overheating or
overcharging
•
Undercharging or loose alternator belt
•
Excessive vibration (due to loose clamp or hold down
on battery)
•
Corrosion
•
Freezing (A fully-charged vehicle battery will not
freeze until the temperature is -75° F. Frozen batteries
are not warrantable.)
•
Failure to charge a battery during a period of six
months or more (Inactivity can be extremely harmful
to all lead acid batteries.)
This article provides information regarding the inspection,
care, and maintenance for coach batteries. Battery
maintenance is an important issue often overlooked by
many RV owners and technicians. As batteries age, their
maintenance requirements change. This means longer
charging time and/or higher finish rate (higher amperage
at the end of the charge). Usually older, serviceable
(unsealed) flooded batteries need to be watered more
often, as their capacity decreases over time.
Battery Inspection, Safety, Care, and Maintenance
Safety Guidelines
WARNING
!
Remove rings, metal watch bands, and other metal
jewelry before working around batteries. Use
caution when using metal tools. If a tool contacts
a battery terminal or metal connected to it, a short
circuit could occur, which could cause personal
injury, explosion, or fire.
WARNING
!
Prior to handling or working with a lead-acid battery,
consult your battery owners’ manual for instructions
and safety precautions.
CAUTION
!
Disconnect the 120 volt electrical power cord and
the negative terminal from the coach batteries, and
make sure all power sources are disable (ignition,
generator, shore power, inverter) before working on
the electrical system.
Lead-acid batteries contain hydrogen-oxygen gases that
may be explosive and sulfuric acid that may cause severe
burns. To avoid injury, observe these precautions when
handling or working with a lead-acid battery:
•
Wear ANSI (American National Standards Institute)
approved safety glasses or goggles, as well as a face
shield.
•
Wear proper clothing to protect your face, hands, and
body.
•
Work in a well-ventilated area.
•
Never lean over a battery while boosting, testing, or
charging.
•
Keep all ignition sources away from the battery.
Cigarettes, flames, or sparks could cause a battery to
explode.
•
Always shield eyes and face from the battery.
•
Do not charge or use booster cables or adjust post
connections without proper instructions and training.
•
Keep vent caps tight and level.
•
In the event of an accident, flush eyes or skin with
water, and call a physician immediately.
•
Keep out of reach of children.
Summary of Contents for LONDONAIRE 2022
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