Battery Care And Maintenance - TOHATSU 40 Service Manual

Charging System
The charging system consists of the alternator coil
11 12
set (1), rectifier/regulator (2), 20 A engine fuse, and
the battery. When the flywheel is turning approximately 1500 RPM
or higher, the alternator coil set provides alternating current (AC)
voltage to the rectifier/regulator. The rectifier/regulator transforms
the AC voltage into direct current (DC) voltage. Regulator output is
about 15 volts DC with a current rating of 9 - 11 A [models 40 / 50 /
60 / 70 / 80 / 90] or 24.5 - 27.5 A [models 115 / 120 / 140] at 5,500
RPM. The fuse protects the charging circuit from shorts or an
overload.

BATTERY CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Batteries produce an explosive mixture of oxygen
and hydrogen! Keep any sparks or open flame
away from battery while charging or performing
terminal voltage test. When you charge the
battery, remove the filler caps (if any) from each
cell. Always remove the negative cable first, then
the positive one.
Battery electrolyte is an acidic solution and is
poisonous. It is strong enough to burn skin, eat
holes in clothing, and cause blindness if splashed
into the eyes. Work in a well-ventilated area, wear
eye protection and protective gloves.
If electrolyte is spilled, flush exposed skin with
plenty of clean water. Flush eyes for 10 to 15
minutes. Get medical help immediately.
If electrolyte is ingested, do not induce vomiting,
drink large amounts of milk of magnesia, beaten
eggs, or vegetable oil. Get medical help immediately.
Inspection and Cleaning
Inspection
The first step in determining the condition of a battery should be a
visual inspection. Check:
• Battery case (1) for cracks or other damage.
1
• Terminals (2) for corrosion; make sure they have not come loose
from battery.
• Cable connectors (3) for corrosion; tighten to manufacturer's
specifications for good electrical contact.
• Cables (4) for cracked or frayed insulation.
• Electrolyte level (if not a sealed maintenance free type); add fluid
(distilled water) according to manufacturer's instructions; check
for visible contamination; check specific gravity (5).
• Battery mounting (6) for corrosion; tighten to manufacturer's
specifications.
3-/ 4-Cylinder
WARNING
CAUTION
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
T1463
T1464
T1469
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