26
with a solution of ammonia/water or
baking soda/water.
• NEVER connect (or disconnect)
battery charger clips to the battery
while the charger is turned on, as it
can cause sparks.
• Keep all sources of ignition (ciga-
rettes, matches, lighters) away from
the battery. The hydrogen gas gen-
erated during charging can be
combustible.
• As a further precaution, only charge
the battery in a well ventilated area.
• Always shield eyes and protect skin
and clothing when working near
batteries.
WARNING: Batteries contain
sulfuric acid and may emit
explosive gases. Use extreme
caution when handling bat-
teries. Keep batteries out of
the reach of children.
Battery Removal
WARNING: Battery posts,
terminals and related acces-
sories contain lead and lead
compounds. Wash hands
after handling.
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 bulkhead baffle
from the front of the dash panel by
lifting upward on the baffle locking tab
on each side.
• 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, disconnect the negative cable,
and move the cable away from the
battery. Disconnect the positive lead
from the battery in the same manner.
• Care fully lift the battery up and out
of the tractor.
Install the battery by repeating the
above steps in the reverse order.
IMPORTANT: 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,
or coat the terminals with a thin coat
of grease or petroleum jelly, to
protect against corrosion.
• Always keep the cables and termi-
nals clean and free of corrosion.
• Alwa ys keep the terminal covers in
place over the battery terminals.
• Avoid tipping. Even a sealed battery
will leak electrolyte when tipped.
Battery Storage
• When storing the tractor for
extended periods, disconnect the
negative battery cable. It is not
necessary to remove the battery.
• All batteries discharge during stor-
age. Keep the exterior of the battery
clean, especially the top. A dirty bat-
tery will discharge more rapidly.
• The battery must be stored with a
full charge. A discharged battery
can freeze sooner than a charged
battery. A fully charged battery will
store longer in cold temperatures
than hot.
• Recharge the battery before return-
ing to service. Although the tractor
may start, the engine charging sys-
tem may not fully recharge the
battery.