Volvo D4, Operator'S Manual

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81
Maintenance: Electrical system
Battery. Maintenance
WARNING! Risk of fire and explosion. Never
allow an open flame or electric sparks near the
battery or batteries.
WARNING! Never mix up battery positive and
negative terminals. This may cause sparks and
an explosion.
WARNING! The battery electrolyte contains ex-
tremely corrosive sulfuric acid. Protect your skin
and clothes when charging or handling batter-
ies. Always use protective goggles and gloves.
If battery electrolyte comes into contact with
unprotected skin wash off immediately using
plenty of water and soap. If battery acid comes
into contact with the eyes, flush immediately
with plenty of water and obtain medical assis-
tance without delay.
Connecting and disconnecting
First connect the red battery lead + to the b
terminal. Then connect the black battery lead – to the
battery – terminal.
When disconnecting the battery, disconnect the
– lead (black) first and then the + lead (red).
Cleaning
Keep batteries dry and clean. Oxidation or dirt on
the battery and battery terminals can cause short-
circuits, voltage drop and discharge especially in
damp weather. Clean the battery terminals and leads
to remove oxidation using a brass brush. Tighten the
cable terminals well and grease them with terminal
grease or petroleum jelly.
Topping up
The electrolyte should be 5–10 mm over the plates in
the battery. Top up using
distilled water if necessary.
Charge the battery after topping up for at least 30
minutes by running the engine at fast idle.
NOTE! Certain maintenance-free batteries have spe-
cial instructions which must be followed.
Electrical connections
Also check that all electrical connections are dry and
free of oxidation and that there are no loose connec-
tions. If necessary, spray these connections with a
water-repellent spray (Volvo Penta Universal oil).