28
Checking the Fluid Level
Check the fluid level every 50 hours of operation. Remove the
pod vents and make sure each cell is filled to the fluid level as
shown in Figure 7-1. If the fluid has dropped below the fill
well, add distilled water until the cell is filled to correct level.
DO NOT OVERFILL.
Figure 7-1. Battery fluid level
Charging the Battery
If the battery loses its electrical charge, remove the battery
from the ARGO and recharge it with a 12 volt battery charger
at the rate of 10-12 amps maximum. The battery should remain
on charge until the specific gravity reaches 1.265 on a hy-
drometer. Re-install the battery in the vehicle and try to start
the engine. If the battery fails to perform properly, have it
tested by a battery service dealer. Replace a defective battery
with ARGO Part No. 127-54/Exide Part No. 45-50.
Ventilate area when charging. Keep away from spark,
heat, cigarettes or open flame.
Cleaning the Battery Terminals and Cable Connections
Clean the battery terminals and cable connections every 100
hours. Remove the black NEGATIVE (-) cables first. Make
sure you reconnect the NEGATIVE (-) cables to the NEGA-
TIVE (-) post and the red POSITIVE (+) cables to the POSI-
TIVE (+) posts. Damage to the electrical system will occur if
the cables are reversed.
7.1 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Detailed information on standard workshop and safety
procedures and general installation practices is not
included here. ODG assumes no responsibility or li-
ability for PERSONAL INJURY or VEHICLE DAMAGE
which results from any procedure performed, includ-
ing those procedures outlined here. Before performing
any procedure, an individual must have determined to
his/her satisfaction that personal injury or vehicle dam-
age will not result from the procedure, working envi-
ronment or tools selected.
7.1.1 General
To prevent damage to the electrical system:
• Never weld on the vehicle without first disconnecting both
positive and negative battery cables. Make sure the part
you are welding is properly grounded.
• Connect battery booster cables properly, positive to posi-
tive and negative to negative. Connect negative cable
last, disconnect first. It is not a recommended practice to
boost your argo if the battery is dead. If possible, avoid the
use of booster cables from an external battery source.
Damage can occur to the engine ignition system.
• Connect switch terminals properly, especially the ground
wire.
7.1.2 Battery - ARGO Part No. 127-54
- Exide Part No. 45-50
Battery fluid contains sulphuric acid. If battery fluid
comes in contact with skin or eyes, flush thoroughly
with water. If swallowed, call physician or poison con-
trol centre immediately. KEEP AWAY FROM CHIL-
DREN. Serious personal injury can occur. Always wear
rubber gloves and safety glasses when servicing the
battery.
Batteries can explode and cause serious personal in-
jury if exposed to flame or sparks. Never smoke while
servicing the battery.
All C, R, B, N, S and A models are equipped with a 12 volt, wet
cell type battery. The battery is located in the engine com-
partment, on the right side in front of the driver’s position.
The battery on the AVENGER and FRONTIER models is lo-
cated beneath the drivers bench seat, along side the fuel tank,
to the right side of the driver.
SECTION 7
MAINTENANCE INFORMATION