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SECTION 6
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
WARNING
Refasten the retainer strap when
returning the battery to the compart-
ment.
BATTERY STORAGE AND
MAINTENANCE
Lead -acid type batteries are electro-chemical
devices for storing and releasing electrical
charge. As such, they are simply an electrical res-
ervoir, not an electrical source. As soon as energy
is removed from the battery, it should be replaced
by the engine alternator or the RV converter sys-
tem.
If a battery sits unused for 30 days or more, es-
pecially during warm weather, it can develop a
deposit of sulfate crystals on the metal plates in-
side the battery. This conditions is called sulfac-
tion or sulfating, and prevents the battery from
either releasing or accepting a charge. If this con-
dition occurs, the battery must be replaced.
If a battery does not contain at least 80%
charge during freezing temperatures, the electro-
lyte can freeze and crack the battery case.
The two best defenses against sulfating and
insufficient charge are to:
1. turn off the Auxiliary Battery switch to avoid
parasitic discharge (the trickle discharge
caused by directly connected components
like LP gas detectors or digital clock dis-
plays, etc.) and
2. check the battery and recharge as necessary
at least once a month during long storage
periods.
6-8
WARNING
California Proposition 65 Warn-
ing: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to
the state of California to cause cancer
and reproductive harm. Wash hands
after handling.
Further precautions are:
• Remove the battery from the coach.
• Store it in a cool place on a wooden or rubber
pad to inhibit conductive transfer.
• Check the state of charge periodically to
avoid discharge or sulfating.
To ensure that the battery will always accept
and hold a charge, follow these simple mainte-
nance practices.
• Make sure the batteries always remain se-
curely clamped in the battery tray.
• Make sure battery cable clamps are tight on
the terminal posts and are free of corrosion.
• Neutralize corrosion buildup or acid film on
top of battery by washing with a baking soda/
water solution. Rinse with clear water.
NOTE: Make sure vent caps are on securely to
prevent baking soda solution from enter-
ing the battery and contaminating the
electrolyte fluid.
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