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Integrity of the battery connections should be checked, in particular the positive
and negative post terminals should be cleaned and suitable anti-corrosion material
applied. WARNING: DO NOT short circuit the battery as this may cause an
explosion.
Battery should be checked for signs of physical damage and replaced should
anything be found.
Maintenance records should include details of the battery with indelible marking of
‘replace by date’.
Batteries should be changed with new units at 2 (max 3) year intervals.
12.6
Solar Panel Maintenance
12.6.1
The panel will become dirty over time. At regular intervals to suit general environment
conditions the panel should be cleaned with water and a mild detergent using a sponge or
soft cloth, scrub brush or abrasive materials should not be used.
12.6.2
If the panel surface is physically damaged it must be replaced.
12.6.3
Check the mechanical integrity of the unit and its alignment.
12.6.4
Check electrical connections are tight and free from corrosion.
12.7
Cleaning the Lubricator and Surrounding Site
12.7.1
The lubricator and site must be cleaned so that when maintenance checks are made, you
will be able to note measurements and assess the operations of the lubricator accurately
and carry out the works in a cleaner and safer environment.
12.7.2
The whole of the lubricator must be cleaned thoroughly.
12.7.3
The site must be cleared of excess grease.
12.7.4
If oil absorbent granules are being used, the existing, soiled granules should be removed
and replaced with fresh granules. This must be done with extreme caution, if the granules
are allowed to get into the lubricator system via the blades, the system may become
blocked.
12.7.5
The surrounding rail chairs and clips, all rails in the immediate vicinity and the insulator
pots need to be cleaned. 3rd and 4th rail are needed to be cleaned to ensure they are free
of grease and dirt, this is to avoid causing a fire risk and hazardous under footing.
Note: Do not attempt to clean live traction current rails with the current switched on.
12.8
Checking for Leaks
12.8.1
The lubricator should be checked for leaks. With some leaks it will be necessary to take the
leak into consideration in regards to the grease output that you have noted.
12.8.2
Leaks on the primary side (i.e. within the cabinet) of the lubricator will cause an increase in
grease output that is not due to the settings of the lubricator.
12.8.3
Tighten any hose clips or nuts / bolts / screws that maybe the cause of the leak and / or
replace the faulty part that is causing the leak.