Section 5: Maintenance
WARNING Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the unit, shut off engine, wait for all parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key on elec- tric start models. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
BATTERY MAINTENANCE
DANGER
Use extreme caution when working on or near batteries. To help prevent per- sonal injury or property damage:
•Follow the battery safety rules in Sec- tions 1 and 2 of this Manual. Failure to follow all safety rules may result in personal injury or property damage from such causes as an explosion of battery gases, acid burns or electrical burns.
•Electrolyte is a sulfuric acid solution. Avoid spillage and contact with skin, eyes and clothing. Wear protective clothing, rubber gloves and shield eyes with safety goggles when working near the battery.
•Batteries generate explosive gases. Keep sparks and flames away from the battery at all times. Ventilate the area when charging or using the battery in an enclosed area.
Battery Care in Service
1.Once a month or every 10 operating hours, whichever occurs first, check the electrolyte level. If the electrolyte level is not at the UPPER LEVEL line marked on the battery case, add distilled or deminer- alized water. NEVER USE BATTERY ACID TO REFILL THE BATTERY. Replace the battery caps securely and wipe the battery top. Run the engine outdoors for about
20minutes at 3/4 throttle speed to recharge and recirculate the electrolyte solution. For safety, do not leave the tiller unattended while the engine is running.
2.Keep the battery clean. Any acid deposits should be neutralized with a baking soda and water solution (remove battery from unit and tighten the battery caps to prevent any solution from enter- ing the cells). Clean any remaining solu- tion off the battery.
Clean the posts and terminals with a wire brush, sandpaper or steel wool. After cleaning, coat the terminals with a thin coat of petroleum jelly or silicone grease to protect against corrosion.
3.Periodically check the electrical system for loose or dirty connections.
4.Periodically check that the battery clamp is tight. However, do not over- tighten the clamp as doing so could damage the battery case.
5.Periodically check that the vent tube on the side of the battery is not crimped or pinched anywhere along its length.
Battery Storage
The electric start system has a recharging circuit that will maintain the battery’s state of charge during the tilling season. When storing the tiller for extended periods, it is recommended that the battery be fully charged before placing it in storage. (Before reinstalling the battery after storage, give it a thorough recharge.)
Battery Removal and Installation
When removing and installing the battery, disconnect and connect the cables in this order to avoid sparking:
1.To remove the battery, first disconnect the negative
2.Disconnect the negative
3.Disconnect the positive (+) cable from the positive (+) battery post and bend it away from any metal parts. Cover the cable terminal with its rubber boot.
4.Remove the battery clamp.
5.To install the battery, reverse the above steps. Be sure that the battery posts face to the rear of the tiller and that the posi- tive (+) post is on the left side as you face forward from the handlebars.
6.Insert the vent tube into the vent tube shield. Make sure the vent tube is not crimped, pinched or folded anywhere along its length.
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