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Section 7
BATTERY
7.7
WARNING
Lead-acid batteries produce flammable and
explosive gases. To avoid personal injury when
checking, testing or charging batteries, DO NOT
use smoking materials near batteries. keep arcs,
sparks and flames away from batteries. Provide
proper ventilation and wear safety glasses.
WARNING
Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories
contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals
known to cause cancer and reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling.
WARNING
Electric storage battery fluid contains sulfuric
acid which is POISON and can cause SEvERE
CHEMICAL BURNS. Avoid contact of fluid with
eyes, skin, or clothing. Use proper protective gear
when handling batteries. DO NOT tip any battery
beyond 45° angle in any direction. If fluid contact
does occur, follow first aid suggestions below.
BATTERY ELECTROLYTE FIRST AID
External Contact — Flush with water.
Eyes — Flush with water for at least 15 minutes
and get medical attention immediately.
Internal — Drink large quantities of water. Follow
with Milk Of Magnesia, beaten egg, or vegetable
oil. Get medical attention immediately. In case of
internal contact, DO NOT give fluids that would
induce vomiting.
A. CHARGING THE BATTERY
Refer to the battery charger’s manual for specific
instructions.
Under normal conditions the engine’s alternator will have
no problem keeping a charge on the battery. If the battery
has been completely discharged for a long period of time,
the alternator may not be able to recharge the battery, and
a battery charger will be required.
DO NOT charge a frozen battery. It may explode and cause
injury. Let the battery warm before attaching a charger.
Whenever possible, remove the battery from the mower
before charging and make sure the electrolyte covers the
plates in all cells.
WARNING
BATTERIES PRODUCE EXPLOSIvE GASES.
Charge the battery in a well ventilated space so
gases produced while charging can dissipate.
Charging rates between 3 and 50 amperes are satisfactory
if excessive gassing or spewing of electrolyte does not
occur or the battery does not feel excessively hot (over
125°F). If spewing or gassing occurs or the temperature
exceeds 125°F, the charging rate must be reduced or
temporarily stopped to permit cooling.
B. JUMP STARTING
The booster battery must be a 12 volt type. If a
1.
vehicle is used for jump starting, it must have a
negative ground system.
When connecting the jumper cables, connect the
2.
positive cable to the positive battery post, then
connect the negative cable to the negative battery
post.
