1-10 2007 Buell Lightning: Maintenance
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BATTERY DISCONNECTION AND
REMOVAL
1. Remove seat. See 2.44 SEAT.
1WARNING1WARNING
Disconnect negative (-) battery cable first. If positive (+)
cable should contact ground with negative (-) cable con-
nected, the resulting sparks can cause a battery explo-
sion, which could result in death or serious injury.
(00049a)
2. Unthread fastener and remove battery negative cable
(black) from battery negative (-) terminal.
3. Pull back terminal cover boot.
4. Unthread fastener and remove battery positive cable
(red) from battery positive (+) terminal.
5. Unhook strap and remove battery.
CLEANING AND INSPECTION
1. Battery top must be clean and dry. Dirt and electrolyte on
top of the battery can cause battery to self-discharge.
Clean battery top with a solution of baking soda (sodium
bicarbonate) and water (5 teaspoons baking soda per
quart or liter of water). When the solution stops bubbling,
rinse off the battery with clean water.
2. Clean cable connectors and battery terminals using a
wire brush or sandpaper. Remove any oxidation.
3. Inspect the battery screws, clamps and cables for break-
age, loose connections and corrosion. Clean clamps.
4. Check the battery posts for melting or damage caused
by overtightening.
5. Inspect the battery for discoloration, raised top or a
warped or distorted case, which might indicate that the
battery has been frozen, overheated or overcharged.
6. Inspect the battery case for cracks or leaks.
STORAGE
1WARNING1WARNING
Batteries contain sulfuric acid, which could cause severe
burns to eyes and skin. Wear a protective face shield,
rubberized gloves and protective clothing when working
with batteries. KEEP BATTERIES AWAY FROM CHIL-
DREN. (00063a)
CAUTION
Do not allow battery to completely discharge. The elec-
trolyte in a discharged battery will freeze. The more dis-
charged a battery is, the more easily it can freeze and
crack the battery case. (00218a)
If the motorcycle will not be operated for several months,
such as during the winter season, remove the battery from
the motorcycle and fully charge. See 7.11 BATTERY.
See Figure 1-2. Self-discharge is a normal condition and occurs
continuously at a rate that depends on the ambient temperature
and the battery’s state of charge. Batteries discharge at a faster
rate at higher ambient temperatures. To reduce the self-dis-
charge rate, store battery in a cool (not freezing), dry place.
Charge the battery every month if stored at temperatures
below 60˚ F. (16˚ C). Charge the battery more frequently if
stored in a warm area above 60˚ F. (16˚ C).
NOTE
The H-D Battery Tender Automatic Battery Charger (Part No.
99863-93TA) may be used to maintain battery charge for
extended periods of time without risk of overcharging or boil-
ing.
When returning a battery to service after storage, fully charge
the battery. See 7.11 BATTERY.
Figure 1-2. Battery Self-Discharge Rate
3 6 9 12 15
50%
75%
100%
MONTHS OF STAND
C
A
P
A
C
I
T
Y
0
at 105
°
F
at 77
°
F
Effect of Temperature on
Battery Self-Discharge Rate
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