Peterbilt Model 320 Operator's Manual after 8-07 - Peterbilt Motors ...

Battery Care
Electrical
CAUTION: Do not modify or improperly repair
the vehicle’s electrical system or power distribution
box. All electrical repairs should be
performed by a qualified service technician.
Improper repair or modifications will void your
warranty and/or cause serious damage to your
vehicle.
Battery Care
Regular attention to the charging system will help prolong
the service life of your batteries. Here are some common
causes of battery failure:
• Overcharge: This condition may result from improper
voltage regulator adjustment. It results in overheating
of the battery, warped plates, and evaporation of electrolyte.
• Undercharge: Your voltage regulator may be malfunctioning
or is improperly adjusted, the drive belt is slipping,
or your vehicle has undergone long periods of
standing idle or short distance driving. These conditions
result in battery plates becoming covered with a
hard coating.
PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
• Vibration: Loose battery hold-downs may cause battery
plate failure.
• Short Circuits: These discharge a battery by draining
electricity.
• Dirty or Loose Connections: Bad connections may
stop the flow of electrical power to and from the battery.
Recharging Batteries
Except for using small trickle chargers to maintain battery
condition, you should have your vehicle’s batteries charged
by a qualified service facility. To help reduce the risk of
personal injuries, follow these guidelines carefully when
recharging a battery:
WARNING! A battery contains gas that is explosive
and flammable. It could injure you
severely. A spark or flame near a battery on
charge may cause it to explode with great force.
• Allow no sparks or open flame anywhere near the
charging area.
• Charge a battery only in a well-ventilated area, such
as outdoors or in a fully open garage which contains
no pilot lights or other flames.
– 170 – Y53-6015 R(08/07)