MAINTENANCE
49
450 MM289 (1
−
92)
Never add acid to the batteries, only distilled
water. Keep the battery caps on the batteries at
all times except when adding water or taking
hydrometer readings.
Measuring the specific gravity using a hydrometer
is a way to determine the charge level and
condition of the batteries. If one or more of the
battery cells test lower than the other battery cells
(0.050 or more), the cell is damaged, shorted, or
is about to fail.
NOTE: Do not take readings immediately after
adding distilled water. If the water and acid are not
thoroughly mixed, the readings may not be
accurate. Check the hydrometer readings against
the following chart to determine the remaining
battery charge level:
SPECIFIC GRAVITY
BATTERY
at 27
C (80
F)
CHARGE
1.265
100% Charged
1.223
75% Charged
1.185
50% Charged
1.148
25% Charged
1.110
Discharged
NOTE: If the readings are taken when the battery
electrolyte is any temperature other than 27
C
(80
F), the reading must be temperature
corrected. Add or subtract to the specific gravity
reading 0.004, 4 points, for each 6
C (10
F)
above or below 27
C (80
F).
CHARGING THE BATTERIES
1. Drive the machine to a flat, dry surface in a
well ventilated area.
2. Turn the machine power off and set the
parking brake if your machine has this
option.
FOR SAFETY: Before Leaving Or Servicing
Machine; Stop On Level Surface, Set Parking
Brake (If So Equipped), Turn Off Machine And
Remove Key.
04380
