Full Product Manual

13
ASSEMBLY
CAUTION
When attaching battery cables, always connect the
POSITIVE (Red) wire to terminal first, followed by the
NEGATIVE (Black) wire.
NOTE: The positive battery terminal is marked Pos. (+). The
negative battery terminal is marked Neg. (–).
Connecting the Battery Cables
WARNING
Always connect the positive lead to the battery before
connecting the negative lead. This will prevent sparking
or possible injury from an electrical short caused by
contacting the tractor body with tools being used to
connect cables.
For shipping reasons the factory may leave both battery cables
disconnected from the terminals. To connect the battery cables,
proceed as follows:
1. If present, remove the plastic cover from the positive battery
cable. Attach the red connector to the positive battery
terminal (+) using the hex bolt (a) and nut (b). See Figure 21.
2. If present, remove the plastic cover from the negative battery
terminal and attach the black cable to the negative battery
terminal (–) with the hex bolt (a) and nut (b). See Figure 21.
3. Position the red rubber boot (c) over the positive battery
terminal to help protect it from corrosion.
NOTE: If the battery is put into service after the date shown
on top/side of battery, charge the battery as instructed in the
Service and Maintenance section prior to operating the tractor.
(b)
(b)
(a)
(a)
(c)
Figure 21
Battery Maintenance
• The battery is filled with battery acid and then sealed at
the factory. However, even a “maintenance free” battery
requires some maintenance to ensure its proper life cycle.
• Spray the terminals and exposed wire with a battery
terminal sealer, or coat the terminals with a thin coat of
grease or petroleum jelly, to protect against corrosion.
• Always keep the battery cables and terminals clean and free
of corrosion.
• Some models are equipped with a battery containing a
liquid electrolyte. Handle the battery with care and avoid
tipping to prevent leakage.
Battery Storage
• When storing the tractor for extended periods, disconnect
the negative battery cable. It is not necessary to remove
the battery.
• All batteries discharge during storage. Keep the exterior
of the battery clean, especially the top. A dirty battery will
discharge more rapidly.
• The battery must be stored with a full charge. A discharged
battery can freeze sooner than a charged battery. A fully
charged battery will store longer in cold temperatures
than hot.
• Recharge the battery before returning to service. Although
the tractor may start, the engine charging system may not
fully recharge the battery.
Battery Removal
WARNING
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain
lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after handling.
The battery is located beneath the seat frame. To remove
the battery:
1. Remove the battery hold down bracket by pushing the
hooked end out of the tab on the fender to the right side of
the battery. Then flip the battery hold down bracket up to
free the battery. See Figure 22.
Figure 22