Pride Hurricane PMV User Manual page 18

V I . B A T T E R I E S A N D C H A R G I N G
Why do my new batteries seem weak?
Deep-cycle batteries employ a different chemical technology than is used in car batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries
(nicads), or in other common battery types. Deep-cycle batteries are specifically designed to provide power, drain down
their charge, and then accept a relatively quick recharge.
We work closely with our battery manufacturers to provide batteries that best suit your Hurricane PMV's specific
electrical demands. Fresh batteries arrive daily at Pride and are shipped fully charged to our customers. During
shipping, the batteries may encounter temperature extremes that may influence their initial performance. Heat
diminishes the charge on the battery; cold slows the available power and extends the time needed to recharge the
battery.
It may take a few days for the temperature of your Hurricane PMV's batteries to stabilize and adjust to their new
room or ambient temperature. More importantly, it takes a few charging cycles (a partial drain followed by a full
recharge) to establish the critical chemical balance that is essential to a deep-cycle battery's peak performance and
long life.
Please follow these steps to properly break in your Hurricane PMV's new batteries for maximum efficiency and
service life.
1. Fully recharge any new battery prior to its initial use. This charging cycle brings the battery up to about 88% of
its peak performance level.
2. Operate your new Hurricane PMV in familiar and safe areas. Drive slowly at first, and do not travel too far
from your home or familiar surroundings until you have become accustomed to your Hurricane PMV's con-
trols and have properly broken in your PMV's batteries.
3. Fully recharge the batteries. They should now be at over 90% of their peak performance level.
4. Operate your Hurricane PMV again.
5. Fully recharge the batteries again.
6. After four or five charging cycles, the batteries are able to receive a charge of 100% of their peak performance
level and are able to last for an extended period of time.
How can I ensure maximum battery life?
Fully charged deep-cycle batteries provide reliable performance and extended battery life. Keep your Hurricane
PMV's batteries fully charged whenever possible. Batteries that are regularly and deeply discharged, infrequently
charged, or stored without a full charge may be permanently damaged, causing unreliable performance and limited
service life.
How should I store my Hurricane PMV and its batteries?
If you plan on not using your Hurricane PMV for an extended period of time, it is best to:
! Fully charge its batteries prior to storage.
! Disconnect the battery harnesses from the electronic controller module.
! Store your Hurricane PMV in a warm dry environment.
! Avoid storing your Hurricane PMV where it will be exposed to temperature extremes.
WARNING! If your Hurricane PMV's batteries do become frozen, do not attempt to charge
them. Cold or frozen batteries should be allowed to warm up for several days prior to
recharging.
18 Hurricane PMV