Series 40E – Section 8.2 Storage Battery

Section 8.2
Storage Battery

The battery has three major functions:‪

• It provides a source of current for starting the engine.
• It acts as a stabilizer to the voltage in the electrical system.
• It can, for a limited time, furnish current when the electrical demands exceed the output of the alternator.

To avoid injury from battery explosion or contact with battery acid, work in a well-ventilated area, wear protective clothing, and avoid sparks or flames near the battery. Always establish correct polarity before connecting cables to the battery or battery circuit. If you come in contact with battery acid:‪ Flush your skin with water. Apply baking soda or lime to help neutralize the acid. Flush your eyes with water. Get medical attention immediately.

If you come in contact with battery electrolyte:‪

1. Flush your skin with water.
2. Apply baking soda or lime to help neutralize the acid.
3. Flush your eyes with water for 10-15 minutes.
4. Get medical attention immediately.

In the selection of a replacement battery, it is always good practice to select one of an "electrical size" at least equal to the battery originally engineered for the particular equipment by the manufacturer. This information is listed in Table "Table Electrical Size of Series 40 Engine Replacement Battery" .‪

Note: *Recommendation based on the use of Delco-Remy 42MT (or equivalent) cranking motor.

Section 8.2.1
Replacement of Storage Battery

Refer to the OEM for replacement procedure.‪

Section 8.2.2
Removal and Cleaning of Storage Battery

Precleaning of the battery carrier may be necessary. Refer to OEM guidelines.‪

Remove the storage battery as follows:‪

1. Disconnect the grounded terminal of the battery.
2. Remove the cable clamps and felt washer.
3. Remove the battery.

Section 8.2.2.1
Inspection of Storage Battery

Refer to OEM guidelines for storage battery inspection procedure.‪

Section 8.2.3
Installation of Storage Battery

Install the battery as follows:‪

1. Seat the battery level in its carrier.

   NOTICE:
   Do not draw the hold-down clamps down too tightly or the battery case will become distorted or crack.‪

2. Tighten the hold-down clamps evenly until snug.
3. Attach the cable clamps after ensuring the cables and terminal clamps are clean and in good condition.
4. Place a new felt washer at the base of each terminal beneath the cable clamps, to make the cable connections as corrosion resistant as possible.
5. Coat the entire connection with a heavy general-purpose grease.

   Note: Be sure the ground cable is clean and tight at the engine block or frame.

   NOTICE:
   Connect the grounded terminal of the battery last to avoid short circuits, which will damage the battery.‪

6. Check the polarity to be sure the battery is not reversed with respect to the generating system.
7. Check the battery. The top should be clean and dry, the terminals tight and protected with a coat of silicone spray or petroleum jelly, and the electrolyte must be at the proper level. A hydrometer reading (corrected for the temperature of the electrolyte) should be 1.265 or higher. If necessary, charge the battery.