PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
PB1319 (CAT. NO. 5296 ) —145— 22-01691 (R02/02)
• Use protective eyewear.
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• Maintain the full level of electrolyte in the batteries. This reduces the
volume of gas in the cells. The electrolyte level should always be
between 0.4–0.6 in. (10–15mm) above plates. Fill with distilled
water only. After distilled water has been added, wait at least a half
hour to measure solution density (specific gravity). The specific gravity
should be between 1.258–1.265 or the electrolyte level within “MIN”
and “MAX” marks.
• Before attempting any work on the batteries or electrical system,
remove all jewelry. If metal jewelry or other metal comes in contact
with electrical circuits, a short circuit may occur causing you to be
injured—plus electrical system failure and damage.
• To avoid short circuits and damage to yourself or the vehicle, never
place metal tools or jumper cables on the battery or nearby. Metal that
accidentally comes in contact with the positive battery terminal or any
other metal on the vehicle (that is in contact with the positive terminal),
could cause a short circuit or an explosion.
• Keep all batteries away from children
.
• Never reverse battery poles.
• Battery terminals should not be coated with improper grease. Use
petroleum jelly or commercially available, noncorrosive, noncon-
ducting terminal coatings.
• Keep the battery clean and dry.
• Look for any signs of damage.
• Battery acid that may spill during charging should be washed off
with a solution of warm water and baking soda to neutralize the
acid. If you accidentally get acid in your eyes or on your skin, imme-
diately rinse with cold water for several minutes and call a doctor.
WARNING! Always shield your eyes and avoid leaning over
the battery whenever possible.
CAUTION: Never use a metallic funnel to add distilled
water. It could come in contact with a terminal, creating a
short circuit, resulting in severe injury or damage to your
vehicle.
WARNING! Charger cables must be connected positive to
positive (+ to +) and negative to negative (– to –). Reversing
polarity can damage the electrical system.