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Squeeze lock tab upward and pull
latch handle outward.
Lift step to access batteries
BATTERY MAINTENANCE
Lead -acid type batteries are electro-chemical
devices for storing and releasing electrical
charge. As such, they are simply an electrical res-
ervoir, not an electrical source. As soon as energy
is removed from the battery, it should be replaced
by the engine alternator or the RV converter sys-
tem.
If a battery sits unused for 30 days or more, es-
pecially during warm weather, it can develop a
deposit of sulfate crystals on the metal plates in-
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
side the battery. This conditions is called sulfac-
tion or sulfating, and prevents the battery from
either releasing or accepting a charge. If this con-
dition occurs, the battery must be replaced.
If a battery does not contain at least 80%
charge during freezing temperatures, the
electrolyte can freeze and crack the battery
case.
The two best defenses against sulfating and
insufficient charge are to:
1. turn off the Auxiliary Battery switch to avoid
parasitic discharge (the trickle discharge
caused by directly connected components
like LP gas detectors or digital clock dis-
plays, etc.), and
2. check the battery and recharge as necessary
at least once a month during long storage
periods. Turn the Aux. Batt. Switch off to
avoid electrical arcing when attaching or
detaching charger clamps.
NOTE: We do not recommend leaving the shore-
line plugged in continuously during
storage periods because the batteries
can lose electrolytic fluids and become
damaged from continuous charging
without periodic use.
We recommend following regular bat-
tery inspection and maintenance,
especially in cold weather.
WARNING
California Proposition 65 Warn-
ing: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to
the state of California to cause cancer
and reproductive harm. Wash hands
after handling.
Further precautions are:
· Remove the battery from the coach.
· Store it in a cool place on a wooden or rubber
pad to inhibit conductive transfer.
· Check the state of charge periodically to
avoid discharge or sulfating.
SECTION 6
6-9
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