Personal Precautions Risk of Explosive Gases

1.11To reduce the risk of a battery explosion, follow these instructions and those published by the battery manufacturer and the manufacturer of any equipment you intend to use in the vicinity of the battery. Review the cautionary markings on these products and on the engine.

1.12This charger employs parts, such as switches and circuit breakers, that tend to produce arcs and sparks. If used in a garage, locate this charger 18 inches (46 cm) or more above floor level.

2.PERSONAL PRECAUTIONS

RISK OF EXPLOSIVE GASES.

2.1NEVER smoke or allow a spark or flame in the vicinity of a battery or engine.

2.2Remove personal metal items such as rings, bracelets, necklaces and watches when working with a lead-acid battery. A lead-acid battery can produce a short-circuit current high enough to weld a ring or the like to metal, causing a severe burn.

2.3Be extra cautious, to reduce the risk of dropping a metal tool onto the battery. It might spark or short-circuit the battery or other electrical part that may cause an explosion.

2.4Use this charger for charging LEAD-ACID batteries only. It is not intended to supply power to a low voltage electrical system other than in a starter-motor application. Do not use this battery charger for charging dry-cell batteries that are commonly used with home appliances. These batteries may burst and cause injury to persons and damage to property.

2.5NEVER charge a frozen battery.

2.6Consider having someone nearby to come to your aid when you work near a lead-acid battery.

2.7Have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby, in case battery acid contacts your skin, clothing or eyes.

2.8Wear complete eye and body protection, including safety goggles and protective clothing. Avoid touching your eyes while working near the battery.

2.9If battery acid contacts your skin or clothing, immediately wash the area with soap and water. If acid enters your eye, immediately flood the eye with cold running water for at least 10 minutes and get medical attention right away.

2.10If battery acid is accidentally swallowed, drink milk, the whites of eggs or water. DO NOT induce vomiting. Seek medical attention immediately.

3.PREPARING TO CHARGE

RISK OF CONTACT WITH BATTERY ACID. BATTERY ACID IS A

HIGHLY CORROSIVE SULFURIC ACID.

3.1If it is necessary to remove the battery from the vehicle to charge it, always remove the grounded terminal first. Make sure all of the accessories in the vehicle are off to prevent arcing.

3.2Be sure the area around the battery is well-ventilated while the battery is being charged.

3.3Clean the battery terminals before charging the battery. During cleaning, keep airborne corrosion from coming into contact with your eyes, nose and mouth. Use baking soda and water to neutralize the battery acid and help eliminate airborne corrosion. Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth.

3.4Add distilled water to each cell until the battery acid reaches the level specified by the battery manufacturer. Do not overfill. For a battery without removable cell caps, such as valve regulated lead acid batteries (VRLA), carefully follow the manufacturer’s recharging instructions.

3.5Read, understand and follow all instructions for the charger, battery, vehicle and any equipment used near the battery and charger. Study all of the battery manufacturer’s specific precautions while charging and recommended rates of charge.

3.6Determine the voltage of the battery by referring to the vehicle owner’s manual and make sure that the output voltage selector switch is set to the correct voltage. If the charger has an adjustable charge rate, charge the battery in the lowest rate first.

3.7Make sure that the charger cable clips make tight connections.

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