Operator's Manual

32
Incorrect battery cable routing could damage the
tractor and cables causing sparks. Sparks can
cause the battery gasses to explode, resulting in
personal injury.
• Always disconnect the negative (black) battery
cable before disconnecting the positive (red)
cable.
• Always connect the positive (red) battery cable
before connecting the negative (black) cable .
Warning
4. Disconnect the negative (black) ground cable from the
battery post (Fig. 54).
Important Always disconnect the negative (black)
cable first.
5. Disconnect the positive (red) cable from the battery
post (Fig. 54).
6. Remove the battery by lifting it up, then pulling it out
(directly toward you) from the tractor.
Important Always hold the battery vertical to avoid
spilling battery acid.
Checking the Electrolyte Level
1. With the engine off, open the hood to locate the
battery.
2. Look at the side of the battery.
The electrolyte must be up to the Upper line (Fig. 55).
Do not allow the electrolyte to fall below the Lower
line (Fig. 55).
3. If the electrolyte is low, add the required amount of
distilled water; refer to Adding Water to the Battery
1
2
3
m5004
Figure 55
1. Vent caps
2. Upper line
3. Lower line
Danger
Battery electrolyte contains sulfuric acid which is
a deadly poison and causes severe burns.
• Do not drink electrolyte and avoid contact with
skin, eyes or clothing. Wear safety glasses to
shield your eyes and robber gloves to protect
your hands.
• Fill the battery where clean water is always
available for flushing the skin.
Adding Water to the Battery
The best time to add distilled water to the battery is
just before you operate the machine. This lets the
water mix thoroughly with the electrolyte solution.
1. Remove the battery from the tractor.
2. Clean the top of the battery with a paper towel.
Note: Never fill the battery with distilled water while the
battery is installed in the tractor. Electrolyte could be
spilled on other parts and cause corrosion.
3. Remove the vent caps from the battery (Fig. 55).
4. Slowly pour distilled water into each battery cell until
the electrolyte level is up to the Upper line (Fig. 55)
on the battery case.
Important Do not overfill the battery because
electrolyte (sulfuric acid) can cause severe corrosion and
damage to the chassis.
5. Wait five to ten minutes after filling the battery cells.
Add distilled water, if necessary, until the electrolyte
level is up to the Upper line (Fig. 55) on the battery
case.
6. Reinstall the battery vent caps.
Charging the Battery
Charging the battery produces gasses that can
explode.
Never smoke near the battery and keep sparks
and flames away from battery.
Warning
Important Always keep the battery fully charged
(1.265 specific gravity). This is especially important to
prevent battery damage when the temperature is below
32°F (0°C).