BATTERIES

BATTERIES Service specifications

Check electrolyte level..................................................................Every 250 hours NOTE: When starting the machine with booster batteries, see "Connecting booster batteries".

WARNING: Before carrying out any service work on electrical system components, turn the starter switch key to the "OFF" position. When disconnecting batteries, always disconnect the negative (-) cable first. When reconnecting batteries, always connect the negative (-) cable last.

To gain access to the batteries, open the left-hand side door.

Checking the electrolyte level

Replacing a battery

CP99A022 Remove the cell caps and check the level in each batteries cell. The level should be between 10 and 15mm above the plates. Add distilled water if necessary, then install the cell caps. IMPORTANT: When adding distilled water at temperatures below 0°C, the batteries must be charged or the engine run for two hours approximately in order to ensure that the distilled water and the electrolyte are properly mixed. NOTE: Make sure the battery terminals are clean and coated with grease and that the cables are properly tightened.

CD01N026 Remove the terminal protection caps, disconnect cables (negative terminals) and then cables (positive terminals). Remove the anti-sulphate pellets. Remove the two screws, the washers and metal sheet and then remove the old battery. Install the new battery and put the metal sheet, washers and screws back in place. Clean the cables and battery terminals and coat them with grease.

Install new anti-sulphate pellets, reconnect positive cable ends to positive terminals and then negative cable ends to negative terminals. Install the terminal protection caps.

WARNING: Do not invert battery terminals. Connect positive cable ends to positive (+) terminals and negative cable ends to negative terminals (-).

WARNING: Batteries give off explosive gases. Keep all naked flames, sparks and cigarettes away. Ensure adequate ventilation when charging batteries or when using in a confined place. Always protect your eyes when working near batteries.

WARNING: The electrolyte in the batteries can cause serious burns. Batteries contain sulphuric acid. Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing. Antidote: EXTERNAL: rinse with water. INTERNAL: drink large amounts of water or milk. Then drink milk of magnesia, a beaten egg or vegetable oil. Call a doctor immediately. EYES: rinse with water for 15 minutes and consult a doctor immediately.

WARNING: A spark or a naked light can cause the hydrogen in a battery to explode. To prevent explosion, proceed as follows: - When disconnecting the battery cables, always disconnect the negative (-) cable first. - When reconnecting the battery cables, always connect the negative (-) cable last. - Never short-circuit the battery terminals with metal objects. - Do not weld, grind or smoke near a battery.

WARNING: Always store batteries in a safe place, out of the reach of children.

WARNING: Never touch the battery terminals with your hands. This can induce a state of electrolysis and impair the main organs of the body.