WARNING
Exploding Battery:
Batteries generate explosive gasses during vehicle operation and when being charged. Flames, sparks, burning cigarettes or other ignition sources must be kept away at all times.
Always shield eyes when working near batteries:
Vehicle fitted with an Air Bag:
Removal or replacement of battery terminals will not unintentionally trigger an air bag system. However removal of battery terminals with the ignition remaining “on” can cause damage to electronic components, including the SRS – always check to ensure that the ignition is “off” before removing either of the battery terminals.
Before carrying out any work on the electrical system beyond the battery, the air bag system must be electrically disabled. Never indiscriminately probe the electrical wiring/connectors in the vicinity of the steering column.
The wiring and harness connectors of most air bag systems are bright yellow; do not interfere with any harness of this colour. As an added safety measure it is recommended that no person should remain seated behind the steering wheel while any electrical service work is carried out on the vehicle.
General Precautions:
Make sure the engine, lights and any accessories are turned off before removing old battery.
Check if vehicle has a computerised electrical system. Vehicles with on board computer systems require an alternative power source to maintain electronic memory when battery is disconnected.
Always follow any instruction supplied with the battery or printed on the battery or provided by the vehicle manufacture. Some vehicles require that OEM specified electrical settings be re-set after installation of a new battery and in that case battery fitment should be made by a recognised dealer or tradesman with the requisite tools and expertise.
Removal of Old Battery
Note location of positive terminal and mark polarity on positive cable. Remove the ground terminal first. This precaution is necessary to avoid damage to wiring and the battery by accidentally grounding tools.
Remove second terminal. Undo hold down and remove battery.
New Battery Installation
- Inspect tray area for corrosion and dirt. If necessary, scrub with water and baking soda and rinse with water.
- Corroded steel parts should be dried and painted with acid proof paint. Terminals should be cleaned and brushed.
- Cable and starter motor connections should be checked and tightened if necessary.
- If terminal clamps or cables are badly corroded, they should be replaced.
- Place the new battery in the tray ensuring it sits level and that terminal posts are positioned as for the old battery.
- Check clearances over the battery to avoid shorts when the bonnet is closed.
- Place and tighten hold downs securely so that the battery cannot move in the tray.
- Apply a thin coating of high temperature grease to the posts and cable connections.
- Replace cables ensuring that the ground terminal is connected last. Tighten connections.
NB: Do not over tighten. - Never hammer cable connections onto battery posts, as this can damage the battery posts and cover.