Service Manual

SPARK PLUGS
Check or replace spark plugs as recommended in the
Periodic Maintenance Schedule (located in Operator's
Manual). Replace spark plugs that show signs of fouling
or electrode erosion.
Keep the battery terminals clean and tight. Push the
cable terminal down flush with or slightly below the top
of the battery post (Figure
6). After making connections,
coat the terminals with a light application of petroleum
jelly or grease to retard corrosion.
Poor contact at the battery cable connections
is often a
source of trouble. Make sure battery cables are in good
condition and that contacting surfaces are clean and
tightly connected. Do not reverse battery leads.
Use
recommended battery tools when disconnecting leads
to avoid mechanical battery damage.
FIGURE 4. SPARK PLUG GAP
BATTERY POST
BATTERY INSPECTION
Ignition of explosive battery gases
can cause severe personal injury.
not smoke while servicing batteries.
Check battery cells with a hydrometer (Figure 5).
Specific gravity reading should be between 1.260 and
1.290 at 77°F (25°C).
If one or more cells are low on water, add distilled water
and recharge. Keep the battery case clean and dry. An
accumulation of moisture or dirt will accelerate dis-
charge and battery failure.
SPECIFIC
GRAVITY READING
SHOULD BE
1.260
at (25°C)
FIGURE 5. SPECIFIC GRAVITY TEST
FIGURE
6. BATTERY CABLE CONNECTION
BATTERY JUMP STARTING
Occasionally, it may be necessary to jump start (charge)
a weak battery using a charged booster battery. If jump
starting is necessary, the following procedure is recom-
mended to prevent starter damage, battery damage, and
personal injuries.
1. Disconnect engine load.
2. Use a battery of the same voltage (1 2V) as is used
with your engine.
3. Attach one end of the positive booster cable (red) to
the positive
(+) terminal of the booster battery.
Attach the other end of the positive cable to the
positive
(+) terminal of your engine battery.