Simplicity 1693771, 1693738 Battery Maintenance, Checking the Battery Fluid, Regular Maintenance

BATTERY MAINTENANCE

Checking the Battery Fluid

NOTE: This procedure does not apply to maintenance free batteries.

1.Raise the hood to access battery.

2.Remove the battery vent caps (C, Figure 34 & 35). Fluid must be even with the split ring full mark (D). If not, add distilled water.

3.Reinstall the vent caps.

Cleaning the Battery and Cables

1.Disconnect the cables from the battery, negative cable first (B, Figure 34 & 35).

2.Remove the battery hold-down and battery.

NOTE: On units with Kawasaki engines, before removing the battery you must remove the radiator air-screen. The battery can then be tilted forward and removed through the gap between the right side of the dashboard and the radiator.

3.Clean the compartment with a solution of baking soda and water.

4.Clean the battery terminals and cable ends with a wire brush and battery terminal cleaner until shiny.

5.Reinstall the battery in the battery compartment, and secure with the battery hold-down. Set Terminal Guard (D, Figure 35) in place for Diesel Models.

6.Reattach the battery cables, positive cable first (see A, Figure 34 & 35)

7.Coat the cable ends and battery terminals with petro- leum jelly or non-conducting grease.

Regular Maintenance

WARNING

Be careful when handling the battery. Avoid spilling electrolyte. Keep flames and sparks away from the battery.

When removing or installing battery cables, disconnect the negative cable FIRST and reconnect it LAST. If not done in this order, the positive terminal can be shorted to the frame by a tool.

B

A

D

C

Figure 34. Battery Terminals - Gas Models

A.Positive (+) Cable

B.Negative (-) Cable

C.Vent Cap(s)

D.Split Ring

AB

D

C

Figure 35. Battery Terminals - Diesel Models

A.Positive (+) Cable

B.Negative (-) Cable

C.Vent Cap(s)

D.Terminal Guard

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