Electrical System Maintenance; Battery Maintenance; Electrical Wiring Maintenance - Four winns Horizon Owner's Manual

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ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

A. Battery Maintenance
Be sure to keep the battery charged. Also, keep the
battery 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. Refer to the electrical system section in the
engine manufacturer’s manual for additional information
on care and maintenance of batteries.
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.
180/190/200 Horizon
Owner’s Manual
08/01
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
improperly.
The American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) has pub-
lished a standard for the color coding of boat wiring.
Four Winns voluntarily complies with these standards
so the owner of the new boat can easily install new
equipment or troubleshoot the electrical system. The
following table summarizes the color code system:
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