Maintenance; Cleaning Batteries - Jacobsen Eclipse 126 Technical Manual

8.3

MAINTENANCE ___________________________________________________________

Tool List
Insulated wrench, 3/8"
Insulated wrench, 11/32"
Standard Screwdriver
8.4

CLEANING BATTERIES _____________________________________________________

When cleaning the batteries, do not use a water hose
without first spraying with a solution of sodium
bicarbonate (baking soda) and water to neutralize any
acid deposits.
Use of a water hose without first neutralizing any acid,
will move acid from the top of the batteries to another
area of the mower or storage facility where it will attack
the metal structure or the concrete/asphalt floor. After
hosing down the batteries, a residue will be left on the
batteries which is conductive and will contribute to the
discharge of the batteries.
The correct cleaning technique is to spray the top and
sides of the batteries with a solution of sodium
bicarbonate (baking soda) and water. This solution is
best applied with a garden type sprayer equipped with a
non metallic spray wand. The solution should consist of
1/4 cup (59.1 ml) of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)
mixed with 1-1/2 gallons (5.7 l) of clear water. In addition
to the batteries, special attention should be paid to
metallic components adjacent to the batteries which
should also be sprayed with the sodium bicarbonate
(baking soda) solution.
Allow the solution to sit for at least three minutes; use a
soft bristle brush or cloth to wipe the tops of the batteries
in order to remove any residue that could cause the self
discharge of the battery. Rinse the entire area with low
pressure clear water. Cleaning should take place yearly
or more often under extreme conditions.
BATTERY POWER MODULE
Before charging batteries
Inspect the connector housings of the battery charger
and battery pack for dirt or debris. It is suggested to apply
white lithium grease to both terminals to prevent
corrosion.
Charge the batteries daily after use.
1-1/2 GALLONS
CLEAR WATER
1/4 CUP SODIUM
BICARBONATE
(BAKING SODA)
NON-METAL
WAND
2 GAL. GARDEN SPRAYER
(1 1/2 GAL. OF WATER)
TR008
8
Figure 8A
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