Batteries; Warnings For Handling And Replacing Batteries - Invacare Pronto M41 Series Service Manual

SERVICE MANUAL
8.7

Batteries

8.7.1

Warnings for handling and replacing batteries

WARNING!
After any adjustments, repair or service and before use, make sure that all attaching
hardware is tightened securely - otherwise injury or damage may result.
● Make sure power to the wheelchair is off before performing this section.
● The use of rubber gloves is recommended when working with batteries.
● Invacare strongly recommends that battery installation and battery replacement ALWAYS be
done by a qualified technician.
● Batteries are very heavy.Use proper lifting techniques (lift with your legs) to avoid injury.
● Use 30 - 34 Ah (C20) batteries only. Failure to use the correct battery size and/or voltage may
cause damage to your wheelchair and give you unsatisfactory performance.
● ALWAYS use a battery handle/lifting strap when lifting a battery. It is the most convenient
method and assures that the battery acid will not spill. It also helps to prolong the life of the
battery.
● DO NOT tip the batteries. Keep the batteries in an upright position.
● NEVER allow any of your tools and/or battery cables to contact both battery posts at the same
time. An electrical short may occur and serious personal injury or damage may occur.
● The POSITIVE (+) battery cable MUST connect to the POSITIVE (+) battery terminal,
otherwise serious damage will occur to the electrical system.
● Connect same color connectors to each other (RED to RED, BLACK to BLACK).
● DO NOT remove fuse or mounting hardware from POSITIVE (+) battery cable mounting
screw. To replace the fuse, obtain and replace battery harness with fuse.
● Wheelchairs should be examined during maintenance for signs of corrosion ((by, for example,
liquid exposure). Electrical components damaged by corrosion should be replaced
IMMEDIATELY.
● Wheelchairs that are frequently exposed to liquids may require replacement of electrical
components more frequently.
Note
If there is battery acid in the bottom of the battery tray or on the sides of the battery, apply baking
soda to these areas to neutralize the battery acid. Before reinstalling the existing or new battery,
clean the baking soda from the battery tray or battery being sure to avoid contact with skin and
eyes. Determine source of contamination. NEVER install/reinstall a battery with a cracked or
otherwise damaged case.
56
®
Invacare - PRONTO M41