Scout Boats 295 Abaco, Owner'S Manual

Page: 42 / 148

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Inspect all wiring for proper support, sound insulation, and
tight terminals, paying particular attention to portable appli-
ance cords and plugs.
Check all below deck wiring to be sure it is properly supported,
that the insulation is sound, and that there are no loose or cor-
roded 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 the automatic 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!
Note: Some batteries are sealed and do not require or
allow the inspection of the electrolyte.
Keep the battery tops clean and dry. Dirt and water can con-
duct electricity from one post to the other causing the battery
to discharge.
The battery posts should be kept free of corrosion. 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 hot 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 STRIKING 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 cords, should
be seasonally tested for proper continuity by an experienced
electrician. This will detect any shorts, open wires, or ground
faults. Ground fault interrupts should be tested periodically
to ensure proper operation by pressing the test/reset buttons
in the center of face plate. The polarity indicator system also
should be inspected for proper operation.
Generator Maintenance
The engine maintenance required on the generator is similar
in many ways to main 4-stroke diesel engines. The most
important factors to the generator’s longevity are proper
ventilation and maintenance of the fuel system, cooling
system, lubrication system and the AC alternator.
Maintenance schedules and procedures are outlined in your
generator owner’s manual. They should be followed exactly.
CORROSION ALLOWED TO BUILD ON THE
ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS CAN CAUSE A POOR
CONNECTION RESULTING IN SHORTS, GROUND
FAULTS OR POOR GROUND CONNECTIONS.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS SHOULD CHECKED AT
LEAST ANNUALLY AND CLEANED AS REQUIRED.
DO NOT ALLOW CORROSION TO BUILD ON
CONNECTIONS.
ELECTRIC SHOCK CAN CAUSE SEVERE INJURY
OR EVEN DEATH. THE AC AND DC ELECTRICAL
SYSTEMS ALWAYS SHOULD BE DISCONNECTED
FROM THE POWER SOURCE BEFORE INSPECTING
OR SERVICING THE SYSTEM. NEVER SERVICE ANY
COMPONENT OF AN ELECTRICAL SYSTEM WHILE
IT IS ENERGIZED.