Jeep 1996 Grand Cherokee Service Manual page 253

8A - 12 BATTERY
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)
WARNING: WEAR A SUITABLE PAIR OF RUBBER
GLOVES (NOT THE HOUSEHOLD TYPE) WHEN
REMOVING A BATTERY
GLASSES SHOULD ALSO BE WORN. IF THE BAT-
TERY IS CRACKED OR LEAKING, THE ELECTRO-
LYTE CAN BURN THE SKIN AND EYES.
(4) Remove the battery holddowns and remove the
battery from the vehicle (Fig. 12).
Fig. 12 Battery Holddown
(5) Inspect the battery tray and holddowns for cor-
rosion or damage. Remove any corrosion using a wire
brush and a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and
warm water cleaning solution. Paint any exposed
bare metal and replace any damaged parts.
(6) Inspect the battery case for cracks or other
damage that could result in electrolyte leaks. Also,
check the battery terminal posts for looseness. Bat-
teries with damaged cases or loose posts must be
replaced.
(7) Check the electrolyte level in the battery. Use a
putty knife or another suitable wide flat-bladed tool
to pry the cell caps off (Fig. 13). Do not use a screw-
driver. Add distilled water to each cell until the liq-
uid reaches the bottom of the vent well. DO NOT
OVERFILL.
(8) Inspect the battery built-in test indicator sight
glass for an indication of the battery condition. If the
BY HAND. SAFETY
Fig. 13 Removing Cell Caps
battery is discharged, charge as required. See
Built-In Test Indicator and Battery Charging in this
group for more information.
(9) If the battery is to be reinstalled, clean the out-
side of the battery case and the top cover with a
sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water
cleaning solution to remove any acid film (Fig. 14).
Rinse the battery with clean water. Ensure that the
cleaning solution does not enter the battery cells
through the vent holes. If the battery is being
replaced, see the Battery Ratings and Classifications
chart in Specifications at the back of this group. Con-
firm that the replacement battery is the correct size
and has the correct ratings for the vehicle.
Fig. 14 Clean Battery
(10) Clean any corrosion from the battery terminal
posts with a wire brush or a post and terminal
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