Tiffin Motorhomes 2014 Allegro Bus, Owner'S Manual

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TIFFIN MOTORHOMES –ALLEGRO BUS® Chapter 7 ELECTRICAL FEATURES
When batteries (Figure 7-5) are not used for extended periods of time, they will gradually lose their electrical
charge. Therefore, it is necessary periodically to recharge the batteries to increase the operational lives of the
batteries. It is also necessary to check the external condition of the batteries on a regular basis. Look for cracks
in the battery case and cover. Check the vent plugs and replace them if they are cracked or broken. Keep the
battery clean.
Since accumulations of dirt and acid residue around the battery
terminals may provide an electrical path for discharging the
battery, the area around the terminals should be cleaned
periodically. One can use an old toothbrush and a sparse
amount of a diluted solution of baking soda (sodium
bicarbonate) and water (distilled or de-ionized, preferred; tap
water, acceptable) to clean and neutralize any acidic build-up
around the battery terminals.
If there is any foaming on the top of the battery, this indicates
that acidic residues are being neutralized. Rinse the cleaned
areas thoroughly with distilled or de-ionized water (tap water is
also acceptable).
Avoid getting the baking-soda solution into the battery fill
plugs to each battery cell; this would drastically reduce the
effectiveness of the battery (by neutralizing the sulfuric acid
in the battery cells) or, worse, “kill” the battery. Dry the battery cables and terminals to prevent corrosion; to protect
those terminals further, use a plastic ignition spray on the terminals. Do not use grease on the terminals, especially
on the metal-to-metal connections, as grease may act as an insulator and keep the battery electrical power from
entering the cables.
7-5
Caution
Disconnect the 120 VAC electrical power cord and the negative terminal from the
coach batteries BEFORE working on the Allegro Bus electrical system.
Figure 7-5.
12 VDC Battery Supply (Compartment)
Caution
If the Allegro Bus ever requires any welding operations on the frame,
first disconnect the chassis batteries. Failure to do so will destroy
all of the chassis computer system.