Toro MDE Automobile User Manual


 
Workman MDE
Page 3 -- 30
Electrical System
Battery Charging
When the vehicle is not in use, it is recommended to
keep the batteries charged by connecting the battery
charger that is included with the vehicle. The Workman
MDE charger is designed to automatically charge the
batteries fully without overcharging. Indicator lights
(green and red) and an ammeter on the charger give in-
formation about the charging operation.
Make sure to have the battery cell plates covered with
electrolyte before charging the batteries (Fig. 45). Peri-
odically (at least every 50 operating hours) check elec-
trolyte level in the batteries and add distilled water to
ensure proper charging and the best battery perfor-
mance and life.
Colder temperatures will increase the time needed to
fully charge thebatteries. NEVER attemptto chargefro-
zen batteries. Also, if temperatures below freezing are
expected, do not add water to battery after charging as
added water could freeze and damage battery.
For additional battery charging information, see your
Operator’s Manual and the Battery Charger Operating
Instructions.
Battery Inspection and Maintenance
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD:
Battery electrolyte contains sulfuric acid which
is adeadly poisonand it causessevere burns.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN:
If you carelessly drink electrolyte you could die
or if it gets onto your skin you will be burned.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD:
Do not drink electrolyte and avoid contact with
skin, eyes or clothing. Wear safety glasses to
shield your eyes and rubber gloves to protect
your hands.
Fill the battery where clean water is always
available for flushing the skin.
Follow all instructions and comply with all
safety messages on the electrolyte container.
1. Check for cracks in battery case caused by overly
tight or loose hold--down retainer. Replace any battery
that is cracked and/or leaking.
2. Check batteryterminal postsfor corrosion.Use ater-
minal brush to c lean corrosion from the battery terminal
posts.
IMPORTANT: B efore cleaning t he battery, make
sure the filler caps are on tightly.
3. Check for signs of wetness or leakage on the top of
the battery which might indicate a loose or missing filler
cap, overcharging, loose terminal post or overfilling.
4. Check the battery casefor dirt and oil.Clean the bat-
tery with a solution of baking soda and water, then rinse
battery with clean water.
5. Check thatthe batterycover seal isnot brokenaway.
Replace the battery if the seal is broken or leaking.
IMPORTANT: Make sure thearea around thebattery
filler caps is clean before opening the caps.
IMPORTANT: D o not add acid to the battery. Use
only distilled water to adjust the electrolyte level.
6. Check the electrolyte level in each cell. If the level is
below the tops of the plates in any cell, add just enough
distilled water to the cell to cover the plates. Replace
filler caps and charge the battery. After charging, check
electrolyte level in all cells and add distilled water until
the level is 1/8” (3 mm) below the bottom of the fill well
(Fig. 45).
1. Battery plates
2. Filler cap
3. Electrolyte level
4. Battery terminal
Figure 45
1/8 inch
(3 mm)
1
2
3
4