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16
15
17
10.11.2

Batteries

WARNING:
generate hydrogen gas, which is highly flam-
mable. If ignited by a spark or flame, the gas
may explode violently, causing spraying of
acid, fragmentation of the battery, and possible
severe personal injuries. Wear safety glasses
when working near batteries. In case of con-
tact with acid, flush immediately with water.
Two batteries are used in this vehicle. They are both
12-volt, lead acid type, negative (-) ground, maintenance-
free batteries rated at 1225 cold-cranking amps. Refer to
Section 2.13.17, Batteries for general information.
a. Battery Description
The battery equalizer maintains a balanced charge on the
two batteries in series to keep them at full charge levels.
The batteries provide extra power when the electrical
load requirements of the vehicle exceed the supply from
the charging system in the event of an alternator or charg-
ing system failure. The battery also acts as a voltage sta-
bilizer in the electrical system, smoothing out or reducing
temporarily high voltage.
Model MMV Rev. 12/04
14
13
12
MM2911
All lead acid batteries
When starting the engine, allow the starter to crank for a
maximum of 15 seconds only, then wait a minimum of two
minutes to help avoid burning out the starter. Also, DO
NOT let the engine idle excessively, as low engine rpm
can also lead to battery discharge.
Keep the battery from freezing by maintaining a full
charge. A completely discharged battery will freeze at
18° F (8° C).
Distilled water may occasionally need to be added
through the vent filler caps on the top of the batteries. The
vent filler caps prevent loss of electrolyte from the batter-
ies and they contain small pressure activated vent hole to
permit escape of gas pressure. The vent holes allow gas
and pressure produced in the battery during charging to
escape.
The vents in the filler caps require keeping the battery in
an upright position to help prevent electrolyte leakage.
Tipping the battery beyond a 45° angle in any direction
can allow a small amount of electrolyte to leak out.
DO NOT exceed this 45° angle when carrying or installing
a battery.
The battery has top-post terminals. Keep the terminals
clean, and securely tighten clean cable clamps onto the
posts. Grease or special spray sealers may be applied
over the connections.
b. Visual Inspection of the Battery
Inspect for damage such as a cracked or broken case or
cover that could permit loss of electrolyte. If obvious
physical damage is noted, replace the battery. Handle the
battery with care. Determine the cause of damage and
correct as needed before installing the new battery.
c. Battery Load Test
1. Disconnect both the negative (-) battery cable (first),
and the positive (+) battery cable from the battery.
Make sure that the negative and positive battery
terminal posts are clean to help assure a good
electrical connection.
2. Attach voltmeter and battery load tester clamps to
the battery terminal posts.
Electrical System
10.95

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