Maintenance
14.7
Always replace the bowl gasket each time the filter is
reassembled. Check carefully for any signs of leakage.
14.4.8 Fuel Line Connections
Check all fuel line connections for leaks at least once a
year. Tighten as necessary.
Important: Be careful when tightening fittings. Over-tightening
can crack the flair fittings and flair nuts. Use only tube wrench-
es when tightening connections.
14.4.9 Batteries
Avoid spilling battery electrolyte into the engine
compartment or bilge. Also, avoid getting saltwater
on or in the battery. Either condition can create a
gas that is explosive and poisonous if inhaled. If
you spill electrolyte, ventilate the area. Neutralize
the acid in the electrolyte with baking soda. Clean
up neutralized electrolyte with a disposable rag or
paper towel.
We recommend you use Gel type batteries.
Although these batteries are relatively maintenance free,
some simple routine maintenance can increase the effec-
tiveness and life.
* Keep the batteries fully charged. Batteries kept fully
charged last longer than batteries kept at a partial
charge.
* Check the level of the electrolyte regularly. Correct
level is just above the plates. Add distilled water only if
necessary. Over-filling can cause poor performance and
early failure.
* Check the battery every 30 days. Keep the top of the
battery clean. When necessary, clean the top of the
battery with a baking soda solution and rinse with fresh
water.
Important: To prevent battery failure, do not allow the soda
solution to enter the battery cells.
* Inspect the cables and clamps regularly.
* Remove the battery cables and clean the battery ter-
minals and posts regularly. Use a wire brush or bronze
wool. After re-connecting the terminals, apply a coating
of grease or petroleum jelly (Vaseline) to protect them
against corrosion.
Important: Before cleaning the batteries, disconnect and
remove them from the boat.
* Replace corroded or damaged parts immediately.
* Remove the batteries from the boat during periods of
extended storage. Store the batteries in a cool (above
freezing), dry area.
All batteries lose some charge during storage, but the
loss of charge is inversely proportional to the tempera-
ture. The lower the temperature, the less charge is lost.
Avoid storing the batteries in a humid area. Humidity will
lead to corrosion of the terminals.
14.4.10 Shore Power Cable Care
Electrical shock can cause injury or death. Before
working on electrical system, disconnect all power
sources. Inform others to prevent accidental re-
connection of electrical service. All voltages above
12 volts are dangerous. Maintaining power cable
while connected to shore power can cause electrical
shock. Disconnect cord before maintenance.
Clean the cable with a grease cutting household deter-
gent. Apply a vinyl protector periodically.
The metallic parts of the cable are corrosion resistant.
You can, however, increase the life of the cable in a salt
water environment by wiping the exposed parts with fresh
water. Then, dry them and spray them with a moisture
repellent.
If the cable is dropped into salt water, rinse the plug and
connector end thoroughly in fresh water. Then shake or
blow off excess water and allow cable to dry. Spray plug
and connector with a moisture repellent before you use
the cable again.
14.4.11 Electrical System Connections
At least once each year, disconnect electrical connectors
in the bilge, engine, and upper control areas. Check the
terminals for corrosive buildup. Have your boat dealer
repair connectors and terminals if they are corroded.
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