BATTERIES 6
en-41
6.6
CLEANING BATTERIES _____________________________________________________
When cleaning the batteries, do not use a water hose
without first spraying with a solution of sodium
bicarbonate (baking soda) and water to neutralize any
acid deposits. Use of a water hose without first
neutralizing any acid, will move acid from the top of the
batteries to another area of the mower or storage facility
where it will attack the metal structure or the concrete/
asphalt floor. After hosing down the batteries, a residue
will be left on the batteries which is conductive and will
contribute to corrosion and the discharge of the batteries.
Make sure the battery filling system caps are in place
before cleaning batteries. Use care to insure the soda
and water solution does not enter the battery through the
vent caps.
When cleaning the batteries, be sure all of the batteries
on the mower are cleaned. Particular attention should be
placed on cleaning batteries on bottom level of battery
tray as they will tend to pick up more sand and debris.
The correct cleaning technique is to spray the top and
sides of the batteries with a solution of sodium
bicarbonate (baking soda) and water. This solution is
best applied with a garden type sprayer equipped with a
non metallic spray wand. The solution should consist of
1/4 cup (59.1 ml) of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)
mixed with 1-1/2 gallons (5.7 l) of clear water. In addition
to the batteries, metallic components (battery tray, hold
downs, etc.) adjacent to the batteries should also be
sprayed with the sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)
solution.
Allow the solution to sit for at least three minutes; use a
soft bristle brush or cloth to wipe the tops of the batteries
in order to remove any residue that could cause the self
discharge of the battery. Be careful not to disconnect or
dislodge battery filling system components (hoses, caps).
Rinse the entire area with low pressure clear water.
Cleaning should take place weekly or more often under
extreme conditions.
Figure 6C
1-1/2 GALLONS
CLEAR WATER
1/4 CUP SODIUM
BICARBONATE
(BAKING SODA)
2 GAL. GARDEN SPRAYER
(1 1/2 GAL. OF WATER)
NON-METAL
WAND
TR008
