Winnebago Suncruiser 33V Operator's Manual page 69

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 AUX BATT switch to avoid
parasitic discharge (the trickle discharge
caused by directly connected components like
LP gas leak detectors or digital clock displays,
etc.).
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.
WARNING
California Proposition 65 Warning:
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.
NOTE: We do not recommend leaving the
shoreline plugged in continuously during
storage periods because the batteries can
lose electrolytic fluids and become
damaged from continuous charging
without periodic use or maintenance.
We recommend following regular battery
inspection and maintenance, especially
in cold weather.
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.
To ensure that the battery will always accept
and hold a charge, follow these simple
maintenance practices.
• Make sure the batteries always remain
securely clamped in the battery tray.
• Make sure battery cable clamps are tight on
the terminal posts and are free of corrosion.
• Neutralize corrosion buildup or acid film on
top of battery by washing with a baking soda/
water solution. Rinse with clear water.
NOTE: Make sure vent caps are on securely to
prevent baking soda solution from
entering the battery and contaminating
the electrolyte fluid.
WARNING
Before removing any battery cables or
battery, make sure all 12-volt equipment
in the motor home is off and the power
cord has been disconnected.
Be sure to replace the battery terminal
boot onto the positive terminal after
servicing. Care must be taken to avoid
pinching the cable between any metal
parts. Should the cable be damaged, a
short circuit could result in personal injury
or damage to equipment. Replace any
damaged cables at once. Always remove
jewelry and wear protective clothing and
eye covering when checking or handling
batteries.
• Clean and tighten battery terminals and have
the specific gravity checked at least once a
year.
• Every month, or more often in hot weather,
check the battery fluid level. Fill to
approximately 3/8 inch above the plates. DO
NOT OVERFILL. If fluid is added during
freezing weather, the motor home should be
driven several miles to mix water and
electrolyte to prevent freezing.
• Fluid level check may be omitted if equipped
with maintenance-free batteries.
SECTION 6
ELECTRICAL
6-7