Battery - Airstream Excella 500 1973 Owner's Manual

Battery
A normal battery will discharge by itself in 30
to 45 days, therefore, it is necessary to
periodically check the battery and charge it as
is necessary. We suggest checking the battery
at least every two weeks in freezing weather.
A fully charged battery will not freeze under
any normal circumstances, therefore, it is
imperative that you keep your battery
charged during the winter. A safe level of
charge is a specific gravity reading of 1.225. A
fully charged battery has a specific gravity of
1.250 to 1.280. Always use a hydrometer
which has a temperature correction scale.
Maintain a clean battery top and check
terminals and cables for tightness and cleanli¬
ness. A dirty battery will dissipate its charge
through surface contamination. Clean battery
top with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
The terminals should be tight and free of
corrosion. To clean terminals, neutralize with
a solution of baking soda, rinse in clear water,
and dry. Prior to reinstalling, coat terminals
and battery posts with a light film of non-
metallic grease. Petroleum jelly will do as an
alternate, but will require more frequent
application. Important: reconnect the battery
cables to the correct battery posts. For
example, if negative ground the black cable
should be connected to the negative ( -) post
and the red cable to the ( + ) post. The
polarity may be determined by inspecting the
battery post which is grounded on the tow
vehicle, since it must always match the trailer.
For example, if negative pole of the tow
vehicle is grounded, the polarity of the trailer
battery is negative ground.
Add water to cells as necessary. Check the
electrolyte level at least once a month. When
you are traveling steadily and for an extended
period of time, or you are in climates above
90°F check the electrolyte level every two
weeks.
Caution: The gases generated within a storage
battery cell may be ignited by an open flame
or spark in the vicinity of the battery. Do not
use a match to provide light for checking the
level of water.
During the winter the battery should be
removed from the Airstream and stored in a
cool, dry place, kept full of water, cleaned
and charged monthly. A battery which is
allowed to completely lose its charge will
never regain its original power, or a full
charge.
On rear bath models the battery is located in
a rear curbside compartment. On center bath
models it is located in a front curbside
compartment. The battery slides out onto the
opened door for service and removal. For
removal it is not necessary to remove cables
from battery terminals, just pull quick dis¬
connects apart (see photo).
For battery service or replacement, go to any
service station or dealer who sells and services
Battery Cable Quick Disconnects
this battery. The battery is rated for 105 amp.
hrs. at 80° F and has a 5 year prorated
warranty from date of purchase of the trailer.
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