BATTERY 2.6 BATTERY 2.6.1 PREVENTING RISKS THAT MAY BE DUE TO THE BATTERY q Electrolytic batteries contain sulphuric acid, which can cause burns. It can also corrode clothing and make holes in it. In case of contact with battery acid, immediately wash the involved part with plenty of water. q Battery acid may cause blindness if it comes in contact with the eyes. If acid accidentally gets into your eyes, wash them immediately with plenty of water and consult a doctor without delay.
RWA01060 q If you accidentally swallow battery acid, drink a large quantity of water or milk, beaten egg white or vegetable oil and in any case anti-acid substances like magnesia, bicarbonate, etc., call a doctor or a poison treatment centre immediately. WRONG q Always wear safety goggles when working on batteries. q Batteries produce hydrogen, which is highly explosive and can be easily ignited with small sparks or naked flames. q Before working with batteries, stop the engine and remove the ignition key. q Avoid short-circuiting the battery terminals through accidental contact with metal objects or tools or through the inversion of the terminals.
RWA01080 q Tighten the battery terminals securely. Loose terminals may generate sparks and even cause the explosion of the battery. RWA01180 2.6.2 STARTING WITH BOOSTER CABLES q When starting the machine with booster cables, always wear safety goggles. q When starting the engine by means of another machine, avoid any contact between the two machines. q Be sure to connect the positive cable (+) first and then the negative or earth cable (–) when connecting the booster cables. After the start, disconnect first the negative or earth (–) cable and then the positive cable (+). q Connect the batteries in parallel: positive to positive and negative to negative.
RWA01190 q When connecting the earth cable to the frame of the machine to be started, operate as far as possible from the battery. (See "3.15.3 IF THE BATTERY IS DOWN"). q Do not attempt to start the engine by causing a short-circuit with the terminals of the starter (see "2.8.14 PRECAUTIONS CONCERNING THE STARTER"). 50