The Electrical System - Volvo Penta D2-55 Workshop Manual

Group 30 Electrical system
76
Important information – electrical
system
IMPORTANT! Stop the engine and turn off the
power at the main switch(es) before carrying out
work on the electrical system.
Battery main switch
Never break the circuit between the alternator and the
battery while the engine is running. The main switch
(es) shall, therefore never by switched off before the
engine has stopped. If the circuit is disconnected
while running, the voltage regulator can be destroyed
and the alternator can be seriously damaged.
The charging circuits must never be re-connected with
the engine running, for the same reason. For simulta-
neous charging of two independent battery circuits, a
Volvo Penta charge splitter can be fitted to the stan-
dard alternator (accessory).
Batteries
Never mix up the battery's positive and negative ter-
minals when fitting batteries. Incorrect installation can
result in serious damage to the electrical equipment.
Refer to the wiring diagram. The battery poles shall be
kept well cleaned and the cable shoes shall always be
tightened and well greased, to avoid power loss.
Fast charging of the batteries should be avoided. If
fast charging must be used, the batterycables shall
always be disconnected first.
NOTE! Follow the appropriate safety regulations when
charging batteries. During charging, unscrew the cell
plugs but leave them in the plug holes. Ventilate well,
especially if the batteries are charged in an enclosed
space. Always switch off the charging current before
the charging clips are removed.
WARNING! Never expose the battery area to
naked flame or electrical sparks. Never smoke
close to the batteries. The batteries generate
hydrogen gas when charged, which forms an ex-
plosive gas when mixed with air. This gas is
easily ignited and highly explosive.
Always use protective goggles when charging
and handling the batteries.
Battery electrolyte contains sulfuric acid which
is highly corrosive. Should the battery electro-
lyte come into contact with unprotected skin
wash off immediately using plenty of water and
soap. If you get battery acid in your eyes, flush
at once with a lot of water, and get medical as-
sistance at once.