Ch 6 page 5 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Battery hazard prevention - Never shut off main switch when engine is running. - Keep the batteries in good condition. - Battery power assistance: see Operating and Maintenance manual. - When exchanging electrical components always turn off the battery main switch. - Remember that a open circuit symptom in a warning light circuit might be a broken bulb. WARNING Never turn off battery main switch when ignition is on. Leave battery main switch on for atleast 5 minutes after engine has completely stopped. Figure 2 Battery electrolyte contains sulphuric acid and can quickly burn the skin and eat holes in clothing.
If you spill acid on yourself, immediately flush the area with water. Battery acid could cause blindness if splashed into the eyes. If acid gets into the eyes, flush them immediately with large quantities of water and see a doctor at once. If you accidentally drink acid, drink a large quantity of water or milk, beaten egg or vegetable oil. Call a doctor or hospital immediately! Figure 3 When working with batteries ALWAYS wear safety glasses. Batteries generate hydrogen gas. Hydrogen gas is very EXPLOSIVE, and is easily ignited with a small spark or flame. Before working with batteries, turn the starter switch to the OFF- position, and the battery main switch must be turned OFF.
Avoid short-circuiting the battery terminals through accidental contact with metallic objects, such as tools, across the terminals. When removing or installing, check which is the positive (+) and negative (-) terminal. Removing the batteries: 1. Disconnect ч terminal connected to the earth point. 2. Disconnect the battery cable between the batteries. 3. Disconnect + terminal connected to the starter. When installing the batteries, carry out the procedure in the opposite order, 3 - 2 - 1. Tighten the battery caps securely. When removing any battery cap, wear rubber gloves to prevent electrolyte contact with the skin.
Tighten the battery terminals securely, check that the terminals are not loose bytrying to move the battery cables by hand. Loosened terminals can generate sparks and lead to an explosion. SHOP MANUAL NOTE