Battery Removal

The battery is located under the dash panel in the frame pedestal.

To remove the battery:

Open the tractor hood by lifting it at the notches in the side panels.

Remove the upper baffle of the bulkhead from the front of the dash panel by lifting upward on the locking tab on each side of the baffle.

Pull the upper end of the rubber battery strap rearward to unhook it from the tab on the pedestal.

Loosen the negative battery cable clamp and disconnect the negative lead from the battery first; then disconnect the positive lead from the battery.

Carefully lift the battery up and out of the tractor.

Install the battery by repeating the above steps in the reverse order.

Always connect the positive lead to the battery before connecting the negative lead.

Battery Maintenance

The battery is filled with battery acid and then sealed at the factory. However, even a “maintenance free” battery requires some maintenance to ensure its proper life cycle.

Spray the terminals and exposed wire with a battery terminal sealer, orcoat the terminals with a thin coat of grease or petroleum jelly, to protect against corrosion.

The battery should be kept clean. Any deposits of acid should be neutralized with baking soda and water. Be careful not to get this solution in the cells.

Avoid tipping the battery. Even a “sealed” battery will leak electrolyte when tipped.

Battery Storage

When storing the tractor for extended periods, disconnect the battery

cables. Removing the battery from the unit is recommended.

All batteries discharge during storage. Keep the exterior of the battery clean, especially the top. A dirty battery will discharge itself more rapidly.

The battery must be stored with a full charge. A discharged battery will freeze at a higher temperature.

Specific Gravity

Freezing Point

1.265

–71°F

1.250

–62°F

1.200

–16°F

1.150

5°F

1.100

16°F

• Recharge the battery before returning to service; or every two months, whichever comes first.

Headlight Bulb Replacement

Wire Harness

Locking Tab

Locking Tab

Light Bulb Assembly

Figure 18

The headlight assembly has two bulbs one for the right and one for the left reflector. To replace one or both headlight bulbs:

Lift the hood to expose the back side of the headlight assembly.

Pull both locking tabs away from light bulb and pull wire harness away. See Figure 18.

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Cub Cadet 3186 manual Battery Removal, Battery Maintenance, Battery Storage, Headlight Bulb Replacement