PURSUIT OS 375, Owner'S Manual

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OS 375
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4.9 Electrical System Maintenance
12-VOLT DC ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
At least once a year, spray all exposed electrical components behind the helm and in the plugs with a protector.
Exterior light fixture bulbs should be removed and the metal contact areas coated with a non-water soluble
lubricant like petroleum jelly or silicone grease. The sockets should be sprayed with a protector. Care must
be taken not to get any oil or petroleum jelly on the glass portion of the bulbs as this will cause the bulb to
overheat and burn out.
WHEN REPLACING LIGHT BULBS IN MARINE LIGHT FIXTURES, ALWAYS USE A
BULB WITH THE SAME RATING AS THE ORIGINAL. USING A DIFFERENT BULB
COULD CAUSE THE FIXTURE TO OVERHEAT AND MELT OR SHORT CIRCUIT.
Check all below deck wiring to be sure it is properly supported, that the insulation is sound, and that there are
no loose or corroded terminals. Corroded terminals should be thoroughly cleaned with sandpaper, or
replaced, tightened securely and sprayed with a metal and electrical protector. Inspect all engine wiring.
Check the electrolyte level in the batteries regularly and add distilled water as necessary. If the batteries are
frequently charged by a battery charger, the electrolyte level will have to be checked more often. The correct
fluid level in the cells is usually approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch above the plates. If fluid is needed, fill to the
proper level with distilled water. Do not over fill!
Please note that some batteries are sealed and cannot be filled. Keep the battery tops clean and dry. Dirt and
water can conduct electricity from one post to the other causing the battery to discharge.
The battery posts should be kept free of corrosion. Wing nut connections should not be used to attach battery
cables. Remove the cables and clean the posts and cable clamps with a battery post cleaner or sandpaper as
required. Coating the battery posts and cable clamps with petroleum jelly or silicone grease will protect them
and reduce corrosion. Battery cables, both positive and ground, must be replaced when they show signs of
corrosion or fraying. Deteriorated cables cause a considerable voltage loss when high currents are drawn,
as for starting the engine.
NEVER USE AN OPEN FLAME IN THE BATTERY STORAGE AREA. AVOID STRIK-
ING SPARKS NEAR THE BATTERY. A BATTERY CAN EXPLODE IF A FLAME OR
SPARK IGNITES THE HYDROGEN GAS THE BATTERY EMITS WHILE BEING
CHARGED.
AC ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
Periodically inspect all wiring for nicks, chafing, brittleness, improper support, etc. Examine the shore power
cord closely for cracks in the insulation and corrosion in electrical connectors. Spraying receptacles and
electrical connections with an electrical contact cleaner or a metal and electrical protector will reduce
corrosion and improve electrical continuity.
Inspect all wiring for proper support, sound insulation, and tight terminals, paying particular attention to
portable appliance cords and plugs.
The entire AC circuitry, especially the shore power cord, should be seasonally tested for proper continuity