Removal and Replacement

Removing and installing batteries

Removal

- Always disconnect the battery negative lead first. This is to prevent spark build up when removing the battery.

Installation

- Connect the positive terminal first. Apply acid resistant grease (P/N 1 161 150-6) to the battery posts where the clamps were screwed into place.

Checking the electrolyte level






Check the electrolyte level at every regular service. More regular checks may be required for cars with heavy usage or used in hot climates. Always check the electrolyte level both before and after charging the battery.

- Remove the battery plugs
- Check the level in all the battery cells. Each cell has its own maximum mark (A). It is recommended that a flashlight is used
- Top up to the maximum mark (A) using distilled or deionized water. Never use tap water. Tap water may damage the battery!

Caution! Never fill above the maximum mark (A)! This may cause the electrolyte to leak.

- Install plugs.

Never switch gray plugs (with a gas release filter) with black sealed plugs

- Tighten the plugs fully.

Warning! Remember that the battery contains oxyhydrogen. Oxyhydrogen is highly explosive. A naked flame or smoking near the battery can cause it to explode resulting in personal injury and/or damage to the car.

Warning! The battery contains sulfuric acid. This can cause serious corrosive damage. If the electrolyte comes into contact with your eyes, skin or clothes flush using large quantities of water. Contact a doctor immediately if acid splashes into eyes.

Charging batteries





Charging batteries using a constant charge current

Warning! Explosive oxyhydrogen accumulates when the battery charges. Smoking, welding, grinding or other activities involving sparks or naked flames are prohibited in the vicinity of a charging battery. Batteries must never be charged in the car. Batteries must be charged in a well ventilated place. Ensure that ventilation is good.

Warning! Watch out for acid splash! The battery contains sulfuric acid. This can cause serious corrosive damage. If the electrolyte comes into contact with your eyes, skin or clothes flush using large quantities of water. Contact a doctor immediately if acid splashes into eyes.

Caution! Boost charging (using a high current) will damage the battery. Boost charging is prohibited!

Never charge using a voltage in excess of 14.5 volts.

1. Checking the electrolyte level before charging
The electrolyte level must be checked before the battery is charged. See Checking the electrolyte level. Never charge a battery when the electrolyte level is low!

2. Charging the battery
Remove the battery from the car. Always disconnect the negative terminal first to prevent sparking
Connect the battery charger to the battery terminals. Charge the battery for approximately 10 hours at the recommended constant current. For the recommended constant charge current, see the table in Battery marking
Reinstall the battery after charging. Connect the positive terminal first.

Warning! The battery can develop oxyhydrogen, which is highly explosive. Ensure that any evacuation hose (the hose which evacuates oxyhydrogen from the cargo compartment) is correctly connected to the battery and that the hose leads downwards to the dedicated outlet in the bodywork!

3. Checking the electrolyte level after charging
After charging, the electrolyte level must be checked again and topped up if necessary. See Checking the electrolyte level.