Peterbilt Medium Duty Truck Owner's Manual - Peterbilt Motors

Preventive Maintenance
WARNING! Batteries can kill or injure you
severely. They contain acid, produce poisonous
and explosive gases, and supply levels of electric
current high enough to cause burns. A spark
or flame near a battery on charge may cause it to
explode with great force.
To help reduce the risk of personal injuries, follow these
guidelines carefully when recharging a battery:
• Before attempting any service in the electrical installation,
disconnect the battery negative cable.
• 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. Gases generated during the
charging process must be allowed to escape.
• Maintain the full level of electrolyte in the batteries. This
reduces the volume of gas in the cells. The electrolyte
level should always be between 0.4–0.6 in. (10–15mm)
above plates. Fill with distilled water only. After distilled
water has been added, wait at least a half hour to
measure solution density (specific gravity). The specific
gravity should be between 1.258–1.265 or the electrolyte
level within “MIN” and “MAX” marks.
Electrical System
• When fast charging, remove the battery caps so pressure
does not accumulate.
• Always make sure the battery charger is OFF before
connecting or disconnecting the cable clamps.
• To avoid short circuits and damage to yourself or the
vehicle, never place metal tools or jumper cables on the
battery or nearby. Metal that accidentally comes in contact
with the positive battery terminal or any other metal
on the vehicle (that is in contact with the positive terminal),
could cause a short circuit or an explosion.
Charging Reminders
• Use protective eyewear.
• Keep all batteries away from children.
• Never reverse battery poles.
• Never attempt to place the vehicle in motion, or run the
engine with batteries disconnected.
• Keep the battery clean and dry.
• Look for any signs of damage.
WARNING! Never use a metallic funnel to add
distilled water. It could come in contact with a
terminal, creating a short circuit, resulting in
death, severe personal injury or damage to your
vehicle.
Medium Duty (R05/09) Y53-6027 – 225 –