BATTERIES
The batteries provide the power to operate the machine. The standard are four 6 volt batteries rated at 250 A/h at
a
The machine batteries will hold their charge for long peri- ods of time, but they can only be charged a certain num- ber of times. To get the greatest life from the batteries, charge them when their charge level reaches 25% of a full charge. Use a hydrometer to check the charge level.
Do not allow the batteries to remain in a discharged con- dition for any length of time. Never expose a discharged battery to temperatures below freezing. Discharged bat- teries will freeze causing cracked cases. Do not operate the machine if the batteries are in poor condition or if they have a charge level below 25% (specific gravity below 1.155).
Keep all metallic objects off the top of the batteries, as they may cause a short circuit. Replace worn or dam- aged cables and terminals.
Check the electrolyte level in each battery cell before and after charging the batteries. Never add acid to the batter- ies, use water. Do not allow water level to fall below the battery plates. Portions of plates exposed to air will be destroyed. Do not overfill. Keep plugs firmly in place at all times.
!CAUTION
When servicing machine, avoid contact with battery acid.
!WARNING
Batteries emit hydrogen gas. Explosion or fire can result. Keep sparks and open flame away. Keep covers open when charging.
!WARNING
Wear eye protection and protective clothing when working with batteries.
!WARNING
Charge batteries in a well ventilated area.
BATTERY MAINTENANCE
1.When cleaning the batteries, use a solution of baking soda and water. Do not allow the cleaning fluid to enter the battery cells. Electrolyte will be neutralized.
2.Maintain the proper electrolyte level in each battery cell. If a cell should accidentally overflow, clean immediately.
3.Do not add water until the battery is fully charged.
4.Wipe off the top of the batteries at least once a week.
5.Test battery condition with a hydrometer at least once a week.
6.Ensure that all connections are tight and all corrosion removed.
7.Every 4 to 6 months, remove the batteries from the machine and clean the battery cases and battery compartment.
CHECKING BATTERY SPECIFIC GRAVITY
Use a hydrometer to check the battery specific gravity.
A
B
Battery Check
CHECKING GRAVITY
A.Hydrometer
B.Battery
NOTE: Do not take readings immediately after adding water, if the water and acid are not thoroughly mixed, the reading may not be accurate.
Check the hydrometer readings against this chart
SPECIFIC GRAVITY @80° F(27° C) | BATTERY CONDITION | |
|
| |
1.265 | 100% charged | |
1.225 | 75% | charged |
1.190 | 50% | charged |
1.155 | 25% | charged |
1.120 | Discharged | |
NOTE: If the readings are taken when the battery elec- trolyte is any temperature other than 80 °F(27° C), the reading must be temperature corrected.
To find the corrected specific gravity reading when the temper- ature of the battery electrolyte is other than 80° F(27° C): Add(+) to the specific gravity reading 0.004(4 points), for each
10 F(6° C) above 80 F(27° C).
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SABER/STRIDE II 28/34 98570 7/14/98
