Volvo Penta TAMD74A, Operator'S Manual

Page: 55 / 76

53
Maintenance: Electrical system
Battery. Maintenance
WARNING! Risk for fire and explosion. Never
expose the battery to naked flames or sparks.
WARNING! Never reverse the polarity of the
battery. Risk of sparks and explosion.
WARNING! Battery electrolyte is extremely cor-
rosive. Protect eyes, skin and clothes when
handling batteries. Always use protective
goggles and gloves. In case of splashes on the
skin, wash with soap and plenty of water. In
case of splashes in the eyes, rinse immediately
with plenty of water and call a doctor.
Connecting and disconnecting
Connect the (+) cable (red) to the (+) terminal of the
battery first. Then connect the (–) cable (black) to the
(–) pole of the battery.
Disconnect the (–) cable (black) first and then the (+)
cable (red).
Cleaning
Keep batteries dry and clean. Contaminants and ox-
ide on batteries and battery terminals can cause
short-circuits, voltage drops and discharging, espe-
cially in damp weather. Clean oxide from battery ter-
minals and cable shoes with a brass brush. Tighten
cable shoes well and grease them with terminal
grease or petroleum jelly.
Electrolyte level
The electrolyte should be 5–10 mm (0.2–0.4") above
the cell plates in the battery. If necessary, top up with
distilled water. The battery should be charged for at
least 30 minutes after filling by running the engine at
idling speed.
NOTE! Special instructions must be followed for cer-
tain maintenance-free batteries.