Caution: Batteries produce explosive gases, contain corrosive acid, and supply levels
of electrical current high enough to cause burns. Therefore, to reduce the risk of
personal injury when working near a battery:
| • | Always shield your eyes and avoid leaning over the battery whenever possible. |
| • | Do not expose the battery to open flames or sparks. |
| • | Do not allow the battery electrolyte to contact the eyes or the skin.
Flush immediately and thoroughly any contacted areas with water and get medical help. |
| • | Follow each step of the jump starting procedure in order. |
| • | Treat both the booster and the discharged batteries carefully when using
the jumper cables. |
The maintenance -- free battery is the standard original
equipment battery. There are no vent plugs in the cover. The maintenance --
free battery is completely sealed except for two small vent holes in the
side. These vent holes release the small amount of gas that is produced in
the battery.
The battery has three functions as a major source of energy:
| • | An alternate source of energy with a generator overload. |
The battery specification label (example below) contains
the following:
| • | The original equipment catalog number |
| • | The recommended replacement model number |
Battery Ratings
A battery has two ratings:
When a battery is replaced, use a battery with similar ratings. Refer
to the battery specification label on the original battery or refer to
Battery Usage
Reserve Capacity
Reserve capacity is the time (in minutes) necessary to discharge a completely
charged battery to a terminal voltage of 10.5 volts under the following
conditions:
| • | A constant rate of 25 amperes. |
| • | A constant temperature of 27° C (80° F). |
Refer to
Battery Usage
Cold Cranking Amperage
The cold cranking amperage is an indication of the ability of the battery
to crank the engine at cold temperatures. The cold cranking amperage is the
minimum amperage necessary to maintain 7.2 volts for 30 seconds at -18° C
(0° F). Refer to
Battery Usage
