Tiffin Motorhomes Allegro Bus 2016, Owner'S Manual

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48
ELECTRICAL FEATURES
BATTERY INSPECTION AND CARE
Th e motorhome batteries (Figure 8-3) are locat-
ed on a sliding tray which extend from an under-
neath compartment.
When batteries are not used for extended peri-
ods of time, they will gradually lose their electri-
cal charge. Th erefore, it is necessary periodically
to recharge the batteries to increase the opera-
tional 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 forming 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 okay, too).
Avoid getting the baking-soda solution into the battery fi ll plugs to each battery cell; this would dras-
tically reduce the e ff ectiveness 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.
If the batteries are not going to be used for an extended period of time, they should be removed from
the Allegro Bus and stored in a warm, dry place. IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that this ser-
vice be performed by a quali fi ed service technician, as the process is usually too complicated for the
average owner to perform. For those who may wish to perform this service themselves, the following
procedure is described: Mark the battery cables (“+” sign or “red” for the positive cable; “ - ” sign or
“black” for the negative cable) so that they can be properly reconnected again later. Th ese batteries
would require periodic recharging to maintain their full charge.
Following manufacturer’s recommendations as found in the Owner’s Information Package, periodical-
ly check the fl uid levels in all the cells of the batteries (be sure to use safety eyewear during this process)
and fi ll those that are low with water (distilled or de-ionized water is preferred; tap water is okay).
Figure 8-3: House batteries