TOPIC 5. BATTERY

TM 10-3930-644-14&P

TOPIC 5. BATTERY

When liquid level of battery is low, add distilled water to

CAUTION

raise level of each cell to bottom of filler holes. Be sure

Never fill battery immediately after

filler plugs are tight and vents are open (Fig 5-1).

operation in below freezing weather

because water will not mix acid and

may freeze.

Always fill batteries

before putting engine into service.

Periodically, check external condition of battery and

connecting cables.

Keep batteries clean and well

secured. If the battery is dirty, clean it with soda solution

and a brush. Filler plugs should be tight to prevent the

soda solution from entering cells. After the foaming

stops, flush surface with clean water and apply a thin

coat of petroleum jelly to the posts and cable terminals.

WARNING

It is normal for the battery to

generate hydrogen gas which is

explosive when mixed with air. Never

expose the battery to an open flame

or to an electric spark.

Do not

remove 6r install battery cables while

vent plugs are removed. Battery fluid

is a sulfuric acid solution avoid

getting it on skin, Clothing, painted

surfaces, etc. Should any of the

solution come in contact with your

Clothing or skin, flush the area

immediately with cold water: If the

solution gets on your face or in your

eyes, flush the area with cold water

and get medical help immediately.

Maintain battery in a fully charged condition (specific

gravity above 1.250 with electrolyte at 80F). Determine

charge condition by checking specific gravity; use a

hydrometer with electrolyte temperature corrected to

80F.

Figure 5-1. Checking Specific Gravity

Except in cases of accidental loss or change of

electrolyte, the battery will not require a complete

change of solution during its entire lifetime.

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