Filter
Top Products
8.3
8
Section 8
Electrical System and Components
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.
Battery
General
A 12-volt battery with 400 cold cranking amps is
generally recommended for starting in all conditions.
A smaller capacity battery is often sufficient if an
application is started only in warmer temperatures.
Refer to the following table for minimum cold
cranking amp (cca) capacities, based on anticipated
ambient temperatures. The actual cold cranking
requirement depends on engine size, application, and
starting temperatures. The cranking requirements
increase as temperatures decrease and battery
capacity shrinks. Refer also to the operating
instructions for the piece of equipment for specific
battery requirements.
Battery Size Recommendations
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.
Figure 8-2. Battery Voltage Test.
DC Voltmeter
Battery
Temperature Battery Required
Above 32°F (0°C) 200 cca minimum
0°F to 32°F (-18°C to 0°C) 250 cca minimum
-5°F to 0°F (-21°C to -18°C) 300 cca minimum
-10°F (-23°C) or below 400 cca minimum