Figure 3-4. Servicing battery.

clean water and dry with cloth. To prevent further

corrosion, coat battery terminals and cable con-

nectors with petroleum jelly or heavy grease.

Caution: When cleaning battery case or

battery terminals, be sure cell caps are in place

and take other necessary precautions to prevent

cleaning solution from entering battery celIs.

d. Recharging Battery. R o u t i n e o r p e r i o d i c

recharging of the battery will not be necessary

under normal conditions. If battery requires

frequent recharging, a malfunction is present in the

electrical system. Report the condition to proper

authority. The battery will require recharging if the

headlights have been left on while the tractor is idle

or if the battery has been severely discharged while

trying to start the engine. In most cases, if a booster

battery has been used to start the engine, the

d i s c h a r g e d battery in the tractor will be suc-

cessively recharged during normal operation of the

Figure 3-4. Servicing battery.

tractor. Be sure to keep the battery fully charged

d u r i n g extremely cold weather since the elec-

trolyte in a partially discharged battery is likely to

b . Adding Water to Battery. C h e c k l e v e l o f

freeze. If any doubt exists about battery condition,

electrolyte in battery daily by removing cell caps

check the specific gravity of the electrolyte with a

and observing level. Electrolyte should cover the

hydrometer. When using a hydrometer hold the

plates, If level is low, add just enough distilled

barrel vertical with sufficient electrolyte in the

water to cover plates. Do not add electrolyte when

barrel to lift the float. Take the reading at eye level.

level is low. Replace cell caps.

Disregard the curvature of the electrolyte at the

c. Cleaning Battery Terminals. When checking

point of contact with the float. The following chart

electrolyte level in battery, observe positive and

relates hydrometer readings to battery condition.

negative terminals for buildup of corrosion and for

presence of electrolyte on top of battery case. If

corrosion or electrolyte is present, wash away with a

mixture of baking soda and water. A toothbrush or

other small brush is recommended for scrubbing

terminals and connectors on cables. Rinse with

3-8