BATTERY REQUIREMENTS |
To insure reliable starting in most weather conditions, it is important to properly match a battery to the requirements of the generator. The generator uses a 12 Volt, direct current, negative ground control system powered by an automotive style lead acid battery. Successful engine starting is dependent upon the cranking speed of the engine, which in turn is affected by the cranking capacity of the battery. When selecting a battery, choose the model that provides the highest available cold cranking amperes (CCA) within a given size range, as specified by the Battery Council International (BCI). The battery tray and cables supplied with the generator are sized to accept either a BCI Group 26 or 26R battery, with a minimum recommended rating of 450 CCA.
WARNING
•Do not smoke when near batteries.
•Do not cause flame or spark in battery area.
•Discharge static electricity from body before touching batteries by first touching a grounded metal surface.
•Do not dispose of batteries in a fire. The battery is capable of exploding.
•Do not open or mutilate the battery or batteries. Released electrolyte has been known to be harmful to the skin and eyes and to be toxic.
The electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that is harmful to the skin and eyes. It is electrically conductive and corrosive. The following procedures are to be observed.
•Wear full eye protection and protective clothing.
•Where electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it off immediately with water.
•Where electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush thoroughly and immediately with water and seek medical attention.
•Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with and acid neutralizing agent. A common practice is to use a solution of one pound (500 grams) bicarbonate of soda to one gallon (4 liters) of water. The bicarbonate of soda solution is to be added until the evidence of reaction (foaming) has ceased. The resulting liquid is to be flushed with water and the area dried.
CAUTION 
A battery presents a risk of electrical shock and a high short circuit current. The following precautions are to be observed when working on batteries:
•Remove watches, rings or other metal objects.
•Use tools with insulated handles.
•Wear rubber gloves.
•Do not lay tools or metal parts on top of batteries.
•Disconnect charging source prior to connecting or disconnecting battery terminals.
•Determine if the battery is inadvertently grounded. When inadvertently grounded, remove source of ground. Contact with any part of a grounded battery is capable of resulting in electrical shock. The risk of such shock is reduced when such grounds are removed during installation and maintenance.
•Failure to connect and disconnect in the proper sequence can cause equipment damage. Ensure there is a clean tight fit from the cables to the post.
BATTERY PLACEMENT AND |
CONNECTION |
The next step in installation of the generator is placement and connection of the engine cranking battery. Provided battery cables and battery rack are sized to accept a BCI Group 26 or 26R automotive style battery. A battery with a minimum of 450 CCA (cold cranking amperes) in this size range is recommended to assure reliable engine starting.
WARNING
•Make sure the control panel Mode switch is in the OFF position before connecting the battery cables. Failure to do so may result in unexpected engine starting and to personal injury.
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