5.7.7— Check Battery Condition/Fluid Level
5.7.7.1— Check Condition and Clean
NOTE: On 2.3L models, remove ten screws to release louvered air intake panel on left side of enclosure.
Verify that top of battery is clean and dry. Dirt and electro-
1.
lyte on top of the battery can cause battery to self-dis-
charge. Clean battery top with a solution of baking soda
(sodium bicarbonate) and water (5 teaspoons baking
soda per quart or liter of water). When solution stops bub-
bling, rinse off the battery with clean water.
Clean cable clamps and battery terminals using a wire
2.
brush or sandpaper to remove any oxidation.
Inspect battery screws, clamps and cables for breakage,
3.
loose connections and corrosion. Tighten and clean as
necessary.
Check the battery posts for melting or damage caused by
4.
over tightening.
Inspect battery for discoloration, raised top or a warped
5.
or distorted case, which might indicate that the battery
has been frozen, overheated or overcharged.
Inspect the battery case for cracks or leaks.
6.
Check the battery fluid level of unsealed batteries. See
7.
Subsection 5.7.7.2—Check Fluid Level.
Check the battery state of charge. See Subsection
8.
5.7.7.3—Check State of Charge.
Replace battery if necessary. See Subsection 5.7.7.4—
9.
Battery Replacement.
NOTE: On 2.3L models, start ten screws to install louvered
air intake panel. Alternately tighten screws to 90 in-lbs (10
N-m) using a crosswise pattern.
5.7.7.2— Check Fluid Level
Check the fluid level of unsealed batteries. If necessary, fill with
distilled water only. DO NOT use tap water.
5.7.7.3— Check State of Charge
Check the state of charge using a Digital Multimeter. Recharge and retest if state of charge is below manufacturer's
recommendations. Replace battery if necessary.
5.7.7.4— Battery Replacement
Removal
$
Always disconnect the negative battery cable first. If the positive cable should contact ground with the
negative cable installed, the resulting sparks may cause a battery explosion which could result in seri-
ous injury.
Remove battery negative cable (black) from battery negative (-) terminal.
1.
Remove battery positive cable (red) from battery positive (+) terminal.
2.
Install rubber protective cover over battery positive (+) terminal.
3.
Loosen two screws with nylon washers to release battery hold-down clamp from battery tray.
4.
Grasp battery strap next to battery positive (+) terminal, and lift battery.
5.
When battery tilts sideways, remove from opening.
6.
Remove rubber protective cover from battery positive (+) terminal.
7.
Owner's Manual for Stationary Diesel Generators
Red Lead
From Starter
Battery
Figure 5-11. Battery Cable Connections
Maintenance
Black Lead
To Frame
35