Battery Maintenance
Cleaning the Battery and Cables
1.Disconnect the cables from the battery, negative cable first (B, Figure 34).
2.Clean the battery terminals and cable ends with a wire brush until shiny.
3.Reinstall the battery and reattach the battery cables, positive cable first (see A, Figure 34)
4.Coat the cable ends and battery terminals with petroleum jelly or
WARNING
Be careful when handling the battery. Avoid spilling electrolyte. Keep flames and sparks away from the battery.
When removing or installing battery cables, disconnect the negative cable FIRST and reconnect it LAST. If not done in this order, the positive terminal can be shorted to the frame by a tool.
A | B |
Figure 34. Battery Maintenance
A.Positive Cable
B.Negative Cable
Battery Charging
A dead battery or one too weak to start the engine may be the result of a defect in the charging system or other electrical component. If there is any doubt about the cause of the problem, see your dealer. If you need to replace the battery, follow the steps under Cleaning the Battery & Cables in the Regular Maintenance Section.
To charge the battery, follow the instructions provided by the battery charger manufacturer as well as all warnings included in the safety rules sections of this book. Charge the battery until fully charged. Do not charge at a rate higher than 10 amps.
Storage
Before you store your unit for the
•Disengage the PTO, set the parking brake, & remove the key.
•Perform engine maintenance and storage measures listed in the engine owner’s manual. This includes draining the fuel system, or adding stabilizer to the fuel (do not store a fueled unit in an enclosed structure - see warning).
•Battery life will be increased if it is removed, put in a cool, dry place and fully charged about once a month. If the battery is left in the unit, disconnect the negative cable.
Before starting the unit after it has been stored:
•Check all fluid levels. Check all maintenance items.
•Perform all recommended checks and procedures found in the engine owner’s manual.
•Allow the engine to warm up for several minutes before use.
WARNING
Never store the unit (with fuel) in an enclosed, poorly ventilated structure. Fuel vapors can travel to an ignition source (such as a furnace, water heater, etc.) and cause an explosion.
Fuel vapor is also toxic to humans and animals.
WARNING
Keep open flames and sparks away from the battery; the gasses coming from it are highly explosive. Ventilate the battery well during charging.
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