Section 1 - General Information
Battery Maintenance
Page 1-12
Service Manual
1-10 B
ATTER Y
M
AINTENANCE
C A U T I O N
If battery water level is not maintained, batteries will not fully charge, creating a low discharge rate.
W A R N I N G
!
!
Hazard of explosive gas mixture. Keep sparks, flame and smoking materials away from batteries.
Always wear safety glasses when working with batteries.
Battery fluid is highly corrosive. Thoroughly rinse away any spilled fluid with clean water.
Always replace batteries with UpRight batteries or manufacturer approved replacements.
Before disconnecting the battery negative (-) lead, make sure all switches are OFF. If ON, a spark will
occur at the ground terminal which could cause an explosion if hydrogen gas or fuel vapors are
present.
• Check battery fluid level daily.
• If electrolyte level is lower than 10 mm (
3/8 in.
) above plates, add distilled water only.
DO NOT use tap water with high mineral content. It will shorten battery life.
DO NOT overfill. Battery acid expands during charging and can overflow.
• Keep terminals and tops of batteries clean.
• The battery and cables should be inspected regularly for signs of cracks in the case, electrolyte leak-
age and corrosion of the terminals. Inspect the cables for worn spots or breaks in the insulation and
for broken cable terminals.
• Clean batteries whenever there are signs of corrosion at the terminals, or when electrolyte has over-
flowed during charging. Use a baking soda solution to clean batteries, taking care not to get the solu-
tion inside the cells. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• Clean battery and cable contact surfaces to a bright metal finish whenever a cable is removed.