Bolens 1208 - Manual (Page 13)

usually indicates that the air cleaner should be
serviced.
The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset
once a season. Spark plug replacement is recom­
mended at the start of each mowing season; check
engine manual for correct plug type and gap
specification.
BAHERY INFORMATION
A
WARNING
A. Battery acid must be handled with great care as
contact with it can burn and blister the skin. It is also
advisable to wear protective clothing (goggles, rub­
ber gloves and apron) when working with it.**
B. Should battery acid accidentally splatter into the
eyes or onto the face, rinse the affected area im­
mediately with clean cold water. If there is any
further discomfort, seek prompt medical attention.
C. If acid spills on clothing, first dilute it with clean
water, then neutralize with a solution of ammonia/
water or baking soda/water.
D. Since battery acid is corrosive, do not pour it into
any sink or drain. Before discarding empty elec­
trolyte containers, rinse them with a neutralizing
solution.
E. NEVER connect or disconnect charger clips to bat­
tery while charger Is turned on as it can cause
sparks.
F. Keep all lighted materials (cigarettes, matches,
lighters) away from the battery as the hydrogen gas
generated during charging can be combustible.
G. As a further precaution, only charge the battery in
a well-ventilated area.
*Always shield eyes, protect skin and clothing
when working near batteries.
A
DANGER
Battery contains sulfuric acid. Refer to warning
above. Antidote; EXTERNAL—Flush with water. IN­
TERNAL—Drink large quantities of water or milk.
Follow with milk of magnesia, beaten egg or
vegetable oil. Seek prompt medical attention. EYES:
Flush with cool water for at least 15 minutes, then
seek immediate medical attention.
Since batteries produce explosive gases, keep all
lighted materials (cigarettes, lighters, matches,
etc.) away. Be sure to charge battery only in well-
ventilated areas. Make certain venting path of battery
(drain tube) is always open.
KEEP BATTERIES
OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN!
CHARGING THE BATTERY
The engine on your rear engine lawn tractor is equip­
ped with an alternator. The current for the battery
charger alternator is unregulated. During normal opera­
tion, it is only necessary to charge the battery:
1 . When it is activated for the first time.
2 . Before winter storage.
3. Before using the lawn tractor after winter storage.
When charging the battery after it is in operation, SLOW
CHARGE (DO NOT FAST CHARGE) at a maximum
bench rate of 1.4 amperes for a period of 14-16 hours.
DO NOT CHARGE LONGER THAN 30 HOURS.
BAHERY MAINTENANCE
1 . Check periodicaily (every two weeks or before and
after charging) to be sure electrolyte level is above
the lowest line on battery. Add only distilled water
or good quality drinking water. NEVER add addi­
tional acid or other chemicals to battery after ini­
tial activation.
2. The battery should be checked with a hydrometer
after every 25 hours of operation. If the specific
gravity is less than 1.225, remove battery and
recharge.
3. Coat the terminals and exposed wiring with a thin
coat of grease or petroleum jelly for longer service
and protection against electrolyte corrosion.
4. The battery should be kept clean. Any deposits of
acid should be neutralized with soda and water.
Be careful not to get this solution in the cells.
BAHERY STORAGE
1 . Charge battery using normal methods. NEVER
store discharged battery as it will not recover.
2. When storing battery for extended periods, discon­
nect battery cables. Removing battery from unit is
recommended.
3. Store in cold, dry place.
4. Recharge battery whenever the specific gravity is
less than 1.225, before returning to service, or
every two months, whichever occurs first.
COMMON CAUSES FOR BAHERY FAILURE ARE:
1. Overcharging
2. Undercharging
3. Lack of water
4. Loose hold downs and/or corroded connections
5. Excessive loads
6 . Battery electrolyte substitutes
7. Freezing of electrolyte
NOTE: THESE FAILURES DO NOT CONSTITUTE
WARRANTY. ^
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