Tennant EC-H2O T12, Service Information Manual, Page: 29 / 178

T12 Service Information 9009917 (12-12)
3-5
MAINTENANCE
BATTERIES
The lifetime of the batteries is limited to the
number of charges the batteries receive. To get
the most life from the batteries, only recharge the
batteries when the battery discharge indicator is
down to the last bar. It’s also important to
maintain the proper electrolyte levels during the
life of the battery.
CHECKING THE ELECTROLYTE LEVEL
NOTE: Do Not check the electrolyte level if the
machine is equipped with the battery watering
system. Proceed to HYDROLINK BATTERY
WATERING SYSTEM (OPTION).
Check the battery electrolyte level weekly for
machines equipped with wet/lead acid batteries.
08247
FOR SAFETY: When servicing machine, avoid
contact with battery acid.
The level should be slightly above the battery
plates as shown before charging. Add distilled
water if low. DO NOT OVERFILL. The electrolyte
will expand and may overflow when charging.
Before Charging After Charging
NOTE: Make sure the battery caps are in place
while charging.
CHECKING CONNECTIONS / CLEANING
After every 200 hours of use check for loose
battery connections and clean the surface of the
batteries, including terminals and cable clamps,
with a strong solution of baking soda and water.
Replace any worn or damaged wires. Do not
remove battery caps when cleaning batteries.
Objects made of metal can potentially short circuit
the batteries. Keep all metallic objects off the
batteries.
MEASURING THE SPECIFIC GRAVITY
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.
04380
FOR SAFETY: When maintaining or servicing
machine, avoid contact with battery acid.
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: