6-9
SECTION 6
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
NOTE: We do not recommend leaving the shore-
line plugged in continuously during stor-
age periods because the batteries can
lose electrolytic fluids and become dam-
aged from continuous charging without
periodic use.
We recommend following regular bat-
tery inspection and maintenance, espe-
cially in cold weather.
Further precautions are:
•
Remove the battery from the coach.
•
Store it in a cool place on a wooden or rubber
pad to inhibit conductive transfer.
•
Check the state of charge periodically to
avoid discharge or sulfating.
Battery Maintenance
To ensure that the battery will always accept
and hold a charge, some minor maintenance prac-
tices should be followed:
•
Make sure the battery always remains secure-
ly clamped in the battery tray and the cable
clamps are tight on the terminal posts and free
of corrosion.
•
Remove and neutralize any corrosion buildup
on the battery by brushing with a solution of
baking soda and water, and then rinsing with
clear water. The water will drain through the
bottom of the compartment. Rinse the inside
of the battery box with clean water also after
rinsing the battery.
NOTE: Make sure vent caps are on securely to
prevent baking soda solution from enter-
ing the battery and contaminating the
electrolyte fluid.
•
Clean and tighten battery terminals and have
the specific gravity checked at least once a
year.
•
Every two months or more often in hot
weather, check the battery fluid level. Fill to
approximately 3/8 inch above the plates. DO
NOT OVERFILL.
•
If fluid is added during freezing weather, the
motor home should be driven several miles to
mix water and electrolyte to prevent freezing.
•
Fluid level check may be omitted if equipped
with maintenance-free batteries.
NOTE: We do not recommend leaving the shore-
line plugged in continuously during
storage periods because the batteries
can lose electrolytic fluids and become
damaged from continuous charging
without periodic use.
We recommend following regular
battery inspection and maintenance,
especially in cold weather.
BATTERY CONDITION METER
This meter allows you to check the level of
charge in the coach battery in your motor home.
It is located on the monitor panel on the wall in
Before removing any battery cables or
battery, make sure all 12-volt equip-
ment in the motor home is off and the
power cord has been disconnected.
Always remove jewelry and wear
protective clothing and eye covering
when checking or handling batteries.
WARNING
To prevent wiring damage, it is
essential when replacing the cables
on the battery, or when using a
“booster” battery, that the positive
post and the positive cable be
attached and the negative post and
negative cable be attached. The posts
are marked (+) plus and (-) minus. If
a “fast charger” is used while battery
is in the motor home, disconnect both
battery cables before connecting the
charger. Never attempt to charge or
boost a frozen battery.
WARNING
