Toro Reelmaster 3100-D Service Manual page 275

Inspecting, Maintaining, and Testing the Battery
Reelmaster ® 3100-D/3105-D
20252SL Rev A
1. Do the following inspections and maintenance:
A. Check for cracks. Replace the battery if cracked or leaking.
B. Check the battery terminal posts for corrosion. Use the wire brush to
clean corrosion from the posts.
Before cleaning the battery, tape or block the vent holes of the
filler caps and ensure that the caps are tight.
C. Check for the signs of wetness or leakage on the top of the battery which
might indicate a loose or missing filler cap, overcharging, loose terminal
post, or overfilling. Also, check the battery case for dirt and oil. Clean
the battery with a solution of baking soda and water, then rinse it with
clean water.
D. Check that the cover seal is not broken away. Replace the battery if the
seal is broken or leaking.
E. Check the electrolyte level in each cell. If the level is below the tops of
the plates in any cell, fill all the cells with distilled water between the
minimum and maximum fill lines. Charge at 15 to 25 A for 15 minutes
to allow sufficient mixing of the electrolyte; refer to
(page 6–53).
2. Perform the hydrometer test of the battery-electrolyte.
Ensure that the area around the cells is clean before opening the
battery caps.
A. Use a hydrometer to measure the specific gravity of each cell. Pull the
electrolyte in and out of the hydrometer barrel before taking a reading
to warm-up the hydrometer. At the same time, take the temperature of
the cell.
B. Temperature correct each cell reading. For each 5.5°C (10°F) above
27°C (80°F) add 0.004 to the specific gravity reading. For each 5.5°C
(10°F) below 27°C (80°F) subtract 0.004 from the specific gravity reading;
refer to the Cell Specific Gravity Example (page
Cell Specific Gravity Example
Cell Temperature
Cell Specific Gravity
38°C minus 27°C equals 11°C
(100°F minus 80°F equals 20°F)
11°C multiply by 0.004/5.5°C equals 0.008
(20°F multiply by 0.004/10°F equals 0.008)
ADD (conversion above)
Correction to 27°C (80°F)
IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT
100°F
1.245
0.008
1.253
Page 6–51
Charging the Battery
6–51).
Electrical System: Service and Repairs