4.0 ELECTRIC SYSTEM
4.1 IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The type of battery used in a Tomberlin vehicle has a service requirement which is quite different from
that of an automotive battery.
The electric vehicle battery supplies all of the power to drive the vehicle. During operation the power
stored in the batteries is expended. Be aware that the amperage drain rate can vary greatly depending on
the type of service, the duration of use and the number of "starts" and "stops" made during a day. During
use the batteries will progress through each duty cycle from "fully charged" to an almost depleted state.
This type of service is known as "deep cycle" service and electric vehicle batteries are specifically designed
to handle this type of service. Proper performance of your Tomberlin vehicle can only be obtained from
specified deep cycle, electric vehicle batteries.
PLEASE REVIEW IMPORTANT DANGER AND WARNING STATEMENTS WHEN WORKING AROUND
BATTERIES AND CHARGING SYSTEMS
Always remove key and disconnect battery pack before servicing or repairing the vehicle. See Section 2.5.
Always wear full-face shield when working on or near batteries.
All batteries used in electric vehicles can explode! Batteries produce explosive hydrogen gas at all times,
especially during charging or discharging. Ventilate area when charging batteries.
Do not attempt to charge a battery if it is frozen, or if the case is bulged excessively. Frozen batteries can
explode! Properly dispose of any battery by recycling at auto parts store, battery vendor or salvage yard.
Do not smoke around batteries. Keep sparks and flames away from batteries and the charging area. Use care
to prevent an accidental arc which could cause an explosion. Use only approved insulated tools, remove
jewelry such as rings, watches, chains etc. and place an insulating material (wood, plastic, rubber etc.) over
all battery connections.
Never add acid to a battery.
Battery acid is poisonous and can cause severe burns. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, or clothing.
ANTIDOTES:
EXTERNAL: Flush with water. Call a physician immediately.
INTERNAL: Drink large quantities of milk or water. Follow with milk of magnesia or vegetable oil. Call a
physician immediately.
EYES: Flush with water for fifteen minutes. Call physician immediately.
To reduce the risk of electrical shock or injury:
Do not use an ungrounded two to three-prong adapter to connect the charger to a two-prong outlet or
extension cord. The battery charger must be properly grounded.
Use a three prong No. 12 AWG heavy duty power cord no more than 50 feet long.
Locate all cords so that they will not be stepped on, tripped on, or otherwise damaged. Immediately replace
worn, cut, or damaged power cords or wires.
Do not connect the power cord near fuels, grain dust, solvents, thinners, or other flammables. The spark can
ignite flammable materials and vapors.