Batteries & charging
The battery charger is designed to fully charge the battery set. If the batteries are severely deep cycled, some
automatic battery changers contain an electronic module that may not activate and the battery charger will not
function. Automatic chargers will determine the correct duration of charge to the battery set and will shut off when
the battery set is fully charged. Always refer to the instructions of the specific charger used.
Before charging, the following should be observed:
Caution: Do not overfill batteries. The charging cycle will expel electrolyte and result in component
damage.
•
The electrolyte
level in all cells must be at the recommended
level and cover the plates.
•
The charging must take place in an area that is well ventilated and capable of removing the hydrogen gas
that is generated by the charging process. A minimum of five air exchanges per out is recommended. The
charging connector components are in good condition and free from dirt or debris.
•
The charger connector is fully inserted into the vehicle receptacle.
•
The charger connector/cord set is protected from damage and is located in an area to prevent injury that may
result from personnel running over or tripping over the cord set.
•
The charger must be turned off during the connect/disconnect cycle and therefore no electrical arc is
generated at the DC plug/receptacle contacts. (Some chargers require the “STOP” button to be pushed
before the charger is unplugged from the vehicle)
Battery Maintenance
Tool List Qty. Required Insulated Wrench 9/16” 1
Battery carrier 1
Hydrometer 1
Battery maintenance 1
At Each Charging Cycle
WARNING!
To reduce the possibility of fire, never attach a battery charger to a vehicle that is unattended beyond the normal
charging cycle. Overcharging could cause damage to the vehicle batteries and result in extreme overheating. The
charger should be checked after 24 hours and unplugged after the charge cycle is complete.
Before changing the batteries, inspect the plug of the battery charger and vehicle receptacle housing for dirt or
debris. Charge the batteries after each days use.
Monthly
•
Inspect all wiring for fraying, loose, terminations, corrosion or deterioration of insulation.
•
Check that the electrolyte level is correct and add suitable water as required.
•
Clean the batteries and wire terminations.
Electrolyte level and water
The correct level of the electrolyte is 13mm above the plates in each cell.
This level will leave approximately
6-10mm
of space between the electrolyte and the vent tube. The electrolyte
level is important since any portion of the plates exposed to
air will be ruined beyond repair.
Of equal
importance
is too much water which will result in electrolyte being forced out of the battery due to gassing and the increase in
volume of the electrolyte that results from the charging cycle.
Caution: Do not overfill batteries. The charging cycle will expel electrolyte and result in component
damage.