20
Regular Maintenance
BATTERY MAINTENANCE
Checking the Battery Fluid
Note: Does not apply to maintenance-free batteries.
1. Raise the hood to access battery.
2. Remove the battery filler cap (See Figure 28). Fluid
must be even with the split ring full mark. If not, add
distilled water.
3. Reinstall the filler cap.
Cleaning the Battery and Cables
1. Disconnect the cables from the battery, negative
cable first (B, Figure 28).
2. Remove the battery hold-down rods (C, Figure 28)
and battery clamp (D) and battery.
3. Clean the compartment with a solution of baking
soda and water.
4. Clean the battery terminals and cable ends with a
wire brush and battery terminal cleaner until shiny.
5. Reinstall the battery in the battery compartment, and
secure with the battery hold-down rods (C) and bat-
tery clamp (D).
6. Reattach the battery cables, positive cable first (see
A, Figure 28)
7. Coat the cable ends and battery terminals with petro-
leum jelly or non-conducting grease.
WARNING
Be careful when handling the battery. Avoid
spilling electrolyte. Keep flames and sparks away
from the battery.
When removing or installing battery cables,
disconnect the negative cable FIRST and reconnect
it LAST. If not done in this order, the positive
terminal can be shorted to the frame by a tool.
D
B
A
C
Figure 28. Battery
A. Positive Battery Terminal
B. Negative Battery Terminal
C. Hold Down Rod
D. Battery Clamp
