Ground Fault Current Interrupters (Gfci); Electrical System Maintenance; Battery Maintenance; Electrical Wiring Maintenance - Four winns FREEDOM Owner's Manual

NOTICE
Some marina shore power systems may be im-
properly grounded to retard electrolysis (see
Section H-7 Stray Current Corrosion). Before
using any 110 volt equipment, make sure the
reverse polarity light does not activate when con-
necting the cord to the inlet.
D. Ground Fault Current Interrupters (GFCI)
The Ground Fault Current Interrupter (GFCI) is a device
which protects against hazardous electrical shock from
improper ground. An appliance electrical cord with worn
insulation or damp equipment may have stray current
which will run through electrical grounds. Stray current
as above will result in an electrical shock.
One GFCI receptacle will protect all of the receptacles
on the circuit. A GFCI may be used as a receptacle as
well as an interrupter.
To test:
Push the black test button and the red reset button should
pop out from the inner surface. The receptacle and the
circuit are now off.
Push the red reset button in until it clicks to reset it. If it
does not reset, there is either a short in the circuit or the
equipment being used, or a ground fault in the equip-
ment. Unplug all appliances and reset the GFCI. One
at a time, plug the equipment back in and turn it on. The
item that causes the GFCI to trip is the problem item and
should not be used.
H - 6

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

A. Battery Maintenance
Be sure to keep the batteries charged. Also, keep the
batteries clean, especially the terminals and connection
lugs. The battery cables must be fastened securely while
in use.
Check the battery fluid level often, especially when a
charger/converter is being used. Recharge a battery
indicating a low voltage. Determine the reason for the
discharge. Alternating battery usage with dual batteries
is important. Refer to the engine manufacturer's manual
for additional information on care and maintenance of
batteries.
Freedom™/Horizon™ Owner's Manual
Batteries produce hydrogen and oxygen gases
when being charged. These explosive gases
escape through the vent/fill caps and may form
an explosive atmosphere around the battery if
the ventilation is poor. This gas may remain
around the battery for several hours after charg-
ing. Sparks or flames can ignite the gas and
cause an explosion.
Fire or Explosion Hazard!
Only qualified personnel should install batter-
ies and perform electrical system maintenance.
Do not expose batteries to open flame or
sparks. Do not smoke near batteries.
Poison!
Sulfuric acid in batteries can cause severe
burns. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, or cloth-
ing. Wear goggles, rubber gloves and protec-
tive apron when working with batteries. In case
of skin contact, flush with water at least 15 min-
utes. If swallowed, drink large quantities of
water or milk. Follow with Milk of Magnesia,
beaten egg or vegetable oil. Get medical at-
tention immediately.
Disconnect the battery before working on elec-
trical or ignition system to prevent electrical
shock and accidental ignition.
B. Electrical Wiring Maintenance
Periodically, inspect all wiring for nicks, chaffing, embrittle-
ment, improper support, etc. Spraying the electrical con-
nections with an electrical connection cleaner will reduce
corrosion and improve electrical continuity.
DO NOT allow corrosion to build up on connec-
tions. This can cause equipment to operate im-
properly.
Section H
Page 8