Battery Maintenance - Buell 2004 XB9S Service Manual

HOME

BATTERY MAINTENANCE

GENERAL
Buell motorcycle batteries are permanently sealed, mainte-
nance-free, valve-regulated, lead/calcium and sulfuric acid
batteries. The batteries are shipped pre-charged and ready to
be put into service. Do not attempt to open these batteries for
any reason.
Inspect the battery for damage or leaks and for clean, non-
corroded connections:
At the 1000 mile (1600 km) service interval.
At every scheduled service interval thereafter.
1 1
WARNING WARNING
All batteries contain electrolyte. Electrolyte is a sulfuric
acid solution that is highly corrosive and can cause
severe chemical burns. Avoid contact with skin, eyes,
and clothing. Avoid spillage. Always wear protective face
shield, rubberized gloves and protective clothing when
working with batteries.
1 1
WARNING WARNING
A warning label is attached to the top of the battery. See
Figure 1-1. Never remove warning label from battery. Fail-
ure to read and understand all precautions contained in
warning label before performing any service on batteries
could result in death or serious injury.
1 1
WARNING WARNING
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain
lead and lead components, chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
Table 1-2. Battery Electrolyte Antidotes
CONTACT
External Flush with water.
Drink large quantities of milk or water,
followed by milk of magnesia, vegeta-
Internal
ble oil or beaten eggs. Call doctor
immediately.
Flush with water, get immediate med-
Eyes
ical attention.
1-8 2004 Buell Lightning: Maintenance
SOLUTION
BATTERY TESTING
Voltmeter Test
See Table 1-3. The voltmeter test provides a general indicator
of battery condition. Check the voltage of the battery to verify
that it is in a 100% fully charged condition. If the open circuit
(disconnected) voltage reading is below 12.6V, charge the
battery and then recheck the voltage after the battery has set
for one to two hours. If the voltage reading is 12.8V or above,
perform the load test described under
b1142x7x
Figure 1-1. Battery Warning Label
Table 1-3. Voltmeter Test
BATTERY CHARGE CONDITIONS
12.8
12.6
12.3
12.0
11.8
1.5
7.11 BATTERY.
100%
75%
50%
25%
0%