SERIES 60 ON-HIGHWAY ENGINE OPERATOR'S GUIDE Item 6 Battery Check the hydrometer of maintenance-free batteries for charge. See Figure 13. PERSONAL INJURY To avoid injury from accidental engine startup while servicing the engine, disconnect/disable the starting system. Figure 13 Maintenance-Free Battery If lead-acid or low-maintenance batteries are used, check the specific gravity of each cell every 150 operating hours. Check more frequently in warm weather due to the more rapid loss of water through evaporation. Inspect the cables, clamps and hold-down brackets regularly. Clean and reapply a light coating of petroleum jelly when needed. Have corroded or damaged parts replaced.
If the engine is to be out of service for more than 30 days, remove the batteries and store in a cool, dry place. Keep batteries fully charged, if possible. Replace any battery that fails to hold a charge. Maintain the electrolyte level according to the battery manufacturer's recommendations, but do not overfill. Overfilling can cause poor battery performance or early failure. Periodically check battery connections for corrosion and tightness. If necessary, remove connections and wire brush any corrosion from terminals and cable ends. Replace damaged wiring. Keep the terminal side of the battery clean. When necessary, wash with a solution of baking soda and water. Rinse with fresh water.
Do not allow the soda solution to enter the cells. All information subject to change without notice. 63 DDC-SVC-MAN-0039 Copyright © 2009 DETROIT DIESEL CORPORATION