Monthly Maintenance; Preparation; Attire; Tools - Trace Engineering LEGEND II Manual

At a minimum, check the level of the electrolyte in each battery cell once a month (for non-sealed
batteries). It should be above the top of the plates, but not completely full. Most batteries have a
plastic cup that, when full, just touches the electrolyte. Don't overfill the batteries or the electrolyte will
spill out of the batteries when they are being charged. Refill the batteries with distilled water only -
"spring" water and regular tap water may have high levels of minerals. These can poison the battery
chemistry and reduce battery life.
It is also good to periodically check the battery connections for tightness and corrosion. If any
corrosion is found, disconnect the cables and carefully clean with a mild solution of baking soda and
water. Do not allow the solution to enter the battery . Rinse the top of the battery with clean water
when finished.
To reduce the amount of corrosion on the battery terminals, coat them with anti-corrosion grease or
liquid neoprene (liquid electrical tape) available from automotive parts stores or battery suppliers. Do
not apply anything between the terminal and the cable lugs. The connection should be metal to
metal. Apply the protective material only after the bolts have been tightened.
Warning: use caution when working with metal tools around batteries. Do not allow any
metal object to come into contact with both battery terminals at the same time. Battery
explosion or failure can occur.
Dirty batteries may leak current, and tend to run warmer. Cleaning the batteries, when necessary, is
easy and safe when the instructions presented here are followed.

Preparation

You will need appropriate attire, a few tools, and some equipment and supplies on hand. Read over
the list and gather what you need before you begin.

Attire

Appropriate attire might include old clothes, rubber boots or old shoes. Battery acid is very corrosive
and will dissolve most textiles within a few days after exposure, so wear something you can live
without just in case you splash some on yourself. Be sure to wear rubber gloves and eye protection.

Tools

½-inch or 9/16 wrench as required, or an equivalent socket and ratchet
adjustable and/or locking pliers
torque wrench (suggested, not required)
soft-bristled brush (discarded toothbrushes work just fine)
6-inch scrub brush
WK