Polaris 2004-2005 Sportsman 6x6, Service Manual

Page: 261 / 289

ELECTRICAL
10.33
SEALED LOW MAINTENANCE
BATTERY
NOTE : All Low Maintenance batteries are fully
charged and tested at the factory before
installation. Expected shelf life varies on storage
conditions. As a general rule before placing the
battery into service, check the battery condition
and charge accordingly.
Battery Check:
1. Check the date label on the side of the battery to
calculate when to check voltage. The battery
should be checked every 3 months.
2. Check the voltage with a voltmeter or multimeter.
A fully charged battery should be 12.8 V or
higher .
3. If the voltage is below 12.8 V, the battery will need
to be recharged.
New Batteries: Batteries must be fully charged
before use or battery life can be reduced by
10-30% of full potential . Charge battery for 3--5
hours using a variable rate charger. Do not use
the alternator to charge a new battery. A high rate
battery charger can cause battery damage.
Low Maintenance batteries are permanently
sealed at the time of manufacture. The use of
lead--calcium and AGM technology instead of
lead--antimony allows the battery acid to be fully
absorbed. For this reason, a Low Maintenance
battery case is dark and the cell caps are not
removable, since there is no need to check
electrolyte level.
NEVER attempt to add electrolyte or water to a Low
Maintenance battery. Doing so will damage the
case and shorten the life of the battery. Refer to the
Battery Activation and Maintenance Video (PN
9917987) for proper instruction on servicing Low
Maintenance batteries.
NEVER attempt to add electrolyte or water to a Low
Maintenance battery. Doing so will damage the
case and shorten the life of the battery. Refer to the
Battery Maintenance Video (PN 9917987) for proper
instruction on servicing Low Maintenance
batteries.
To service a Low Maintenance battery:
1. Remove battery from the vehicle
2. Test battery with a voltage meter or load tester to
determine battery condition. This will determine
the length of time required to charge the battery to
full capacity. Refer to capacity table.
3. Charge battery using a variable rate charger.
SEALED LOW MAINTENANCE
BATTERY CHARGING
If battery voltage is 12.8 V or less, the battery may
need recharging. When using an automatic charger,
refer to the charger manufacturer’s instructions for
recharging. When using a constant current charger,
use the following guidelines for recharging.
NOTE: Always verify battery condition before and 1-2
hours after the end of charging.
WARNING: An overheated battery could explode,
causing severe injury or death. Always watch
charging times carefully. Stop charging if the battery
becomes very warm to the touch. Allow it to cool
before resuming charging.