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LIGHTING
Check the operation of exterior lights, including turn signals, brake lights, and reverse lights prior to each trip. Any
inoperative light must be repaired or replaced prior to movement of the RV.
BATTERY, DEEP CYCLE
The deep cycle 12-volt battery is a critical component to the 12-volt electrical system and as such, the battery maintenance is
very important. Checking the battery condition at regular intervals will assist in assuring its dependable operation. Always
wear safety glasses and clothing when working on or around the battery.
Note: The deep cycle RV battery is not provided with the RV; therefore it is not warranted by EverGreen RV.
Before performing any maintenance on the battery, always disconnect 120-volt shore power cord
followed by the negative battery cable then the positive battery cable. Failure to disconnect the
batteries and power cord may result in injury.
Battery acid (sulfuric acid) is highly corrosive and can cause permanent damage to eyes, burn
skin, and disintegrate clothing. If battery acid is splashed in the eyes, or on the skin, immediately
flush with clean water for 15 minutes and seek immediate medical treatment. Battery acid can
cause severe injury or death.
BATTERY TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
Note: This procedure WILL NOT apply to maintenance free batteries. Do not open a maintenance free
battery.
1. Inspect the battery for cracks in the case or vent plugs. Replace the battery if the case and/or vent plugs are cracked.
2. While wearing splash-proof safety glasses, squeeze the rubber bulb of a clean hydrometer (an instrument used to
measure the specific gravity or relative density of liquids), and insert the nozzle into the electrolyte (battery acid) of
the cell. Then release the rubber bulb which will then allow the electrolyte to travel into the hydrometer. To
increase the accuracy of the test, attempt to draw electrolyte fluid from about the center (top-to-bottom) of the cell
reservoir.
3. With the float of the hydrometer steady, read the specific gravity at the point the surface of electrolyte crosses the
float markings. Ideally the specific gravity readings should be between 1.100 and 1.300 *.
4. Release the electrolyte back into the cell from which it was gathered. And record the reading.
5. Repeat the process for each cell being careful to prevent spills of electrolyte.
6. The readings for each cell should not have a difference of more than .030 between the highest and lowest readings.
Low or erratic readings may indicate the battery is in need of replacement. Consult your local battery supplier for
further information and advice.
* Refer to the hydrometer manual for specific instruction for that particular brand of tester.
Battery tips
• Keep the battery mounted securely
• House battery in a plastic protective container designed for battery storage.
• Keep each battery cell filled to just above plates with distilled water. Failure to maintain proper water levels above
the plates will result in permanent diminished battery capacity as the plates cannot be reactivated.
• Batteries will lose charge over time and are subject to freezing when stored in cold climates in a discharged
condition.
• During storage, charge the battery every several weeks. Or move the battery to a warm location during the storage
season.
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