Removal/refitting

The capacity of the battery to start the engine depends on the charge within it and it is therefore necessary to regularly check it and to carry out any maintenance operations required, especially during the winter when the battery may be affected due to both the greater loading required by the starter motor and the reduced battery capacity at low temperatures.

Clean the surfaces of the battery, the terminals and clamps with a solution of water and sodium bicarbonate. Before reconnecting the clamps cover them with a layer of grease.

CAUTION Do not let any of the fluid used for cleaning to enter the battery as it will react with the electrolyte.

CAUTION The electrolyte fluid is an acid and therefore dangerous for eyes, hands and clothes.

NOTE: Batteries stored in a warehouse or installed on a vehicle but unused for long periods will slowly lose their charge so it will be necessary to recharge them before use.

REMOVAL/REFITTING

1. Unscrew the screw securing the clamps to the terminals of the battery and disconnect the negative (-) cable first and then the positive (+) cable.

CAUTION When disconnecting the cables from the battery ensure that the engine is not running as this would damage the alternator.

2. Remove the battery ensuring that it is kept in an upright position.

• When refitting reverse the procedure and clean and grease the clamps and terminals of the battery.

CHECKS AND INSPECTIONS

Check that the electrolyte container is not cracked and that the level of the electrolyte covers the electrodes by approximately 5 mm. Also check that the upper surface of the battery is clean and that the contacts are not oxidized.

Check that the cable clamps are well tightened onto the terminals so that an efficient contact is established.