Ford 231 Operator's Manual page 61

Figure 93
Battery
1. Positive Terminal
3. Negative Terminal
2. Vent Plugs
4. Battery
Checking Electrolyte Level:
Check the electrolyte level
in the battery every 50 hours.
2. If the electrolyte level is low, add distilled water.
The level is correct when the liquid covers the ring
in the filler wells, the top of the red shield, or
1/4
inch (6.35 mm) above the plates, depending on
the type of battery.
NOTE:
Keep distilled water in a clean, well-cover-
ed, non-metallic container.
3.
Install the vent plugs after making sure the breath-
ing holes in the plugs are not blocked.
ALTERNATOR
The alternator, Figure 85, is belt-driven by the fan belt
from the engine crankshaft pulley. It is important that
belt slippage does not occur; otherwise the charging rate
will be affected. Details of belt adjustment are given on
page 55.
Figure 92
Valve Clearance Check
1. Valve Clearance
3. Valve
Adjusting Screw
4. Step Type
2. Rocker Arm Feeler Gauge
sure the solution does not enter the battery. After clean-
ing, wash the battery with clear water. Protect the ter-
minals from corrosion with a light application of petrol-
eum jelly.
In freezing temperatures, the battery must be main-
tained in a good state of charge. When a battery is dis-
charged or run down, the electrolyte is weak and may
freeze, damaging the case. If it becomes necessary to add
water (distilled), it should be done just before operating
the unit so the charging will mix the water with the
electrolyte and prevent the water from freezing.
CAUTION: When the alternator is charg-
ing, an explosive gas is produced inside the
battery. Always check the electrolyte
level with the engine stopped. Do not use
an exposed flame and do not smoke when
checking the battery.
Other than belt adjustment, the only maintenance on
the alternator is to periodically inspect the terminals
and keep them clean and tight. The alternator fan should
also be cleaned periodically.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT,
short the FIE LD terminal
(2), Figure 85, of the alternator to ground.
1. Clean the top of the battery (4), Figure 93, then
remove the vent plugs (2).
DO NOT
disconnect the voltage regulator while the
alternator is operating.
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