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8.3
Section 8
Electrical System and Components
8
Overheated: Chalky, white deposits indicate very high
combustion temperatures. This condition is usually
accompanied by excessive gap erosion. Lean
carburetor settings, an intake air leak, or incorrect
spark timing are normal causes for high combustion
temperatures.
Battery
General
A 12 volt battery with a minimum of 400 cold cranking
amps should be sufficient for cranking. The actual cold
cranking requirement depends on engine size,
application and starting temperatures. Cranking
requirements increase as temperatures decrease and
battery capacity shrinks. Refer to the operating
instructions of the equipment this engine powers for
specific battery requirements.
If the battery charge is not sufficient to turn over the
engine, recharge the battery.
Battery Maintenance
Regular maintenance is necessary to prolong battery life.
WARNING: Explosive Gas!
Batteries produce explosive hydrogen gas while being
charged. To prevent a fire or explosion, charge
batteries only in well ventilated areas. Keep sources of
ignition away from the battery at all times. Keep
batteries out of the reach of children. Remove all
jewelry when servicing batteries.
Before disconnecting the negative (-) ground cable,
make sure all switches are OFF. If ON, a spark will
occur at the ground cable terminal which could cause
an explosion if hydrogen gas or gasoline vapors are
present.
1. Regularly check the level of electrolyte. Add
distilled water as necessary to maintain the
recommended level.
NOTE: Do not overfill the battery. Poor
performance or early failure due to loss
of electrolyte will result.
2. Keep the cables, terminals, and external surfaces
of the battery clean. A build-up of corrosive acid or
grime on the external surfaces can cause the
battery to self-discharge. Self-discharge occurs
rapidly when moisture is present.
3. Wash the cables, terminals, and external surfaces
with a mild baking soda and water solution. Rinse
thoroughly with clear water.
NOTE: Do not allow the baking soda solution to
enter the cells as this will destroy the
electrolyte.
Battery Test
To test the battery, you will need a DC voltmeter.
Perform the following steps. See Figure 8-2:
1. Connect the voltmeter across the battery
terminals.
2. Crank the engine. If the battery drops below 9
volts while cranking, the battery is too small,
discharged, or faulty.
Figure 8-2. Battery Voltage Test.
DC Voltmeter
Battery