Battery - Airstream Caravanner 1977 Owner's Manual

Battery
A normal battery will discharge by itself in
30 to 45 days when not in use, 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
cleanliness.
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.
To insure maximum battery capacity on
both charge and discharge, the battery
terminals and the inside portion of the
cable connector should be scraped or
brushed until both of these surfaces are
shiny bright. The cable connectors should
then be reconnected to the battery and
tightened. The complete assembly, battery
post and cable connector should be
coated with a heavy bodied mineral
grease, petroleum grease or a petroleum
jel.
Important: Reconnect the battery cables
to the correct battery posts.
The black
cable should be connected to the negative
(-) post and the red cable to the (+) post.
The polarity of your tow vehicle must also
be negative (-) ground since it must
always match the trailer. Most tow vehicles
are negative grounded, but always check
your vehicle owner's manual to be sure.
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° check the electrolyte
level about every two weeks. Do not fill
battery above the split ring in filler opening.
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 the water.
During the winter the battery should be
removed from the Airstream and stored in a
cool, dry place, where there is no danger of
freezing. It should be 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.
The battery is located in an exterior
curbside compartment. It slides out onto
Battery Cable Quick Disconnects
the opened door for service and removal.
For removal it is not necessary to remove
cables from battery terminals, just pull
quick disconnects apart (see photo).
For battery service or replacement, go to
any service station or dealer who sells and
services this battery. The battery is rated for
105 amp. hours at 80°F and has a 5 year
prorated warranty.