128 MAINTENA NCE AND ADJUSTMENT
j
•
Charge the battery at
a rate that is 1/10th of the
battery capacity. For example, the charging rate
for a 10 Ah battery wo u ld be 1.0 ampere.
NOTICE
Do not use a high rate b attery charger, as
is typically employed at automotive service
stations, unless the charging rate can be
reduced to the level required for this vehi-
cle’s battery. Charging the battery at a rate
higher than specified may ruin the battery.
Charging at a high rate causes excess heat
which can warp the plates and cause inter-
nal shorting. Higher-than-normal charging
ratesalsocausetheplatestoshedactive
material. Deposits will accumulate, and can
cause internal shorting. If the temperature
oftheelectrolyterisesabove45°C(113°F)
during charging, reduce the charging rate to
lower the temperature, and increase charg-
ing time proportionately.
•
After charging, check the electrolyte level in each
cell. If the lev e l has f allen, ad d distilled water to
bring it back up to the upper level line.
•
Install the caps on the cells.
•
Install t
he battery (see Battery Inst alla tion).
WARNING
Battery posts, terminals and related acces-
sories contain lead and lead compounds,
chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash
hands after handling.