Do not overfill batteries. Electrolyte expands and can overflow during charging. Water added to replace
the spillage dilutes the electrolyte and reduces its specific gravity.
Use only distilled water. Vehicle batteries may use up to 16 quarts of water during their useful life and
non-distilled water may contain harmful minerals which will have a cumulative adverse effect on battery
performance and life.
Batteries and connections must be clean and dry.
Be sure battery hold downs are properly tightened. A loose hold down may allow the battery to become
damaged from vibration or jarring. A hold down that is too tight may buckle or crack the battery case.
Weekly inspect battery posts, clamps and cables for breakage, loose connections and corrosion. Replace
any that are damaged. Check to see that battery cap vent holes are clear. Plugged vent holes will not
permit gas to escape from the cell and could result in battery damage.
3.5 BATTERY CLEANING
Acid-soaked dirt on the battery terminal connections causes current leakage, reduces battery efficiency,
and battery life.
Check that all vent caps are tightly in place before washing.
Hose wash battery terminal connections periodically with clean low-pressure water to keep them free of
acid spillage, dirt, and other debris. Do not hose wash switches, solenoids and other electrical control
devices. Cover as necessary to prevent splashing.
Clean battery terminal connections with baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and water solution (5
teaspoons baking soda per quart water) and stiff bristle brush. Rinse with clean water and dry with a
clean cloth. Do not allow solution to enter cap vent holes.
NOTICE: Follow local ordinances and codes for proper disposal of battery cleaning waste.
3.6 CONDITIONS WHICH AFFECT CHARGING
Always schedule enough charging time to allow the batteries to become fully charged. Charging time is
affected by age and battery condition, state of discharge, electrolyte temperature, AC line voltage, and
other variables. Correct charging methods extend battery life and vehicle range between charges.
Figure 3.4.1
3-3
Summary of Contents for CR-10 Chariot
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