oSafety Procedures While Servicing or Repairing Batteries

TM 10-6140-200-14

c. Open or "break" the circuit before repairing damaged

or acid resistant plastic containers when storing acid or

or dirty terminal plugs or receptacles connected to a

electrolyte.

battery, by removing and insulating one terminal lead at a

e. When mixing acid, to prepare electrolyte, always

time.

pour the acid slowly into the water and stir constantly to

d. When melting sealing compound, in preparation for

mix well. Never pour water into acid. Never use sulfuric

resealing cells, be careful not to puncture the top section of

acid solutions which are over 1.400 specific gravity.

unmelted compound with a screw driver or other pointed

object. A build-up of pressure from the melted compound

f. Apply a neutralizing solution, such as bicarbonate of

in the bottom could cause liquid compound to squirt and

soda and water, when acid is spilled on floor and clean up

inflict a severe burn. Do not allow compound to ignite by

promptly. A mixture of one pound of soda to one gallon of

overheating. Compound becomes workable at 400 to 425

water is recommended.

degrees F.

e. Check batteries frequently for acid leakage or signs of

4-7. Safety Procedures While Servicing or Repairing

corrosion.

Batteries

a. Disconnect the battery from the truck, tractor or

f. Use insulated tools whenever possible when working

crane when servicing or repairing either the battery or the

on batteries. If possible, also cover the terminals and

equipment. Also make certain the battery is disconnected

connectors of a battery with a sheet of plywood or other

insulating material to prevent short circuits.

from the charger before handling or repairing the battery.

g. When taking specific gravity readings, use a face

b. Before repairing a battery, remove all of the vent caps

shield or goggles and read the hydrometer with eye at about

and blow out each cell with a low pressure air hose to

the same level as the electrolyte. (See Figure 2-5). Return

remove any residual gas. Use only a gentle stream of air to

all electrolyte to the cell.

avoid splashing electrolyte.

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