32
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
Batteries
This vehicle is equipped with six 8-volt batteries that supply the power
needed to operate the vehicle. Refer to the battery maintenance section
beginning on page 71 for battery safety warnings and safe handling and
maintenance procedures.
• Always make sure that all electrical accessories are grounded directly
to the battery (-) post. Never use the chassis or body as a ground con-
nection.
• Always observe all battery safety warnings and safe handling proce-
dures.
• Always keep battery terminals and connections clean and free of cor-
rosion at all times.
• Always maintain a full charge on the batteries. For best battery life,
batteries should not be discharged more than 80% of their rated
capacity.
• New batteries should be given a full charge before use.
• New deep cycle batteries need to be cycled several times before
reaching full capacity (50-125 cycles, depending on type). Capacity
will be limited during this time.
• Vent caps should be correctly installed and tight during vehicle opera-
tion and battery charging.
• Recharge batteries at the end of every day the vehicle is operated.
Allow time for the charger to complete its charge cycle.
• The batteries in this vehicle do not have a “memory effect”. Frequent
charging will extend their life.