Battery - Shibaura ST450 Operator's Manual

BATTERY

The tractor is equipped with a 12-volt battery,
with a minimum cold cranking ability of 700 amps
at -18ºC.
Keep the battery connections tight and free of
corrosion. An ammonia or baking soda-water
solution is good for washing the outside surface
and terminals of the battery. After cleaning, wash
the battery with clean water. Apply a small
amount of petroleum jelly to the terminals to
protect them from corrosion.
In freezing temperatures, a good battery charge
must be maintained. If the battery becomes
discharged or run down, the electrolyte becomes
weak and may freeze, causing damage to the
case. If you must add water, use distilled water.
Add the water just before using the tractor so that
the water will mix with the electrolyte during the
charging process, thus preventing the water from
freezing.
Checking the Electrolyte Level and Gravity
NOTE: Check the battery electrolyte level after
every 50 hours of operation.
To determine the battery charge, check the
indicator (Hydrometer)
following shows.
Blue: Good condition, the level and gravity of
electrolyte are good.
Red: Necessary to charge, electrolyte is week.
White: Add the distilled water, water level is low.
Never over charge the battery, it could cause
an explosion and the battery may be
discharged or run down.
Charge the battery within 10% of the rated 6.5
amps.
WARNING
Always check the electrolyte level and gravity
with the tractor engine off, as an explosive
gas is produced inside the battery when the
alternator is charging. Do not use an exposed
flame and do not smoke when checking the
battery electrolyte level and gravity.
SECTION 3 – LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE
on this battery
INDICATOR
To add the distilled water:
as
1. Clean the top of the battery, then remove the
vent plugs.
2. Add distilled water if the electrolyte level is
low. The level is correct when the liquid is
6.35 mm above the plates.
NOTE: Keep distilled water in a nonmetallic
container that is clean and well-covered.
3. Install the vent plug after making sure the
vent holes are not blocked. At below freezing
temperatures, run the engine for a period of
time after adding water, allowing the battery
to charge, which prevents the water from
freezing.
3-20
Figure 3-31