17
BATTERY MAINTENANCE
Checking the Battery Fluid
1. Raise the seat plate to access battery.
2. Remove the battery filler cap (A, Figure 18). 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 (C).
2. Clean the battery terminals and cable ends with a
wire brush until shiny.
3. Reinstall the battery and reattach the battery cables,
positive cable first (B)
4. Coat the cable ends and battery terminals with petro-
leum jelly or non-conducting grease.
A
B
C
Figure 18. Battery Compartment
A.
Vent Cap(s)
B.
Positive (+) Cable & Terminal
C.
Negative (-) Cable & Terminal
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.
BATTERY CHARGING
A dead battery or one too weak to start the engine may
be the result of a defect in the charging system or other
electrical component. If there is any doubt about the
cause of the problem, see your dealer. If you need to
replace the battery, follow the steps above for Cleaning
the Battery & Cables.
WARNING
Keep open flames and sparks away from the
battery; the gasses coming from it are highly
explosive. Ventilate the battery well during
charging.
To charge the battery, follow the instructions provided by
the battery charger manufacturer as well as all warnings
included in the safety rules sections of this book. Charge
the battery until fully charged (until the specific gravity of
the electrolyte is 1.250 or higher and the electrolyte tem-
perature is at least 60° F). Do not charge at a rate higher
than 10 amps.
Regular Maintenance
