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Section 7
WARNING:
7.8 DRIVE BELTS
After the first 2, 4, 8 and 10 hours of operation, check for
proper tension on all drive belts and check for any
damage. Thereafter, check the belt tension after every
100 hours of operation or bi-weekly, whichever occurs
first.
1. Using a belt tension gauge attached to the belt at the
position shown in Figure 7-8, check that the belt
deflects 1/2 inch with 10 pounds of pressure applied.
Adjust belt tension as necessary, see Adjustment
Section 6.
2. Check the belts for cracks, tears, and excessive wear.
Replace any damaged belts.
-IMPORTANT-
Do not overfill the battery. Electrolyte will
overflow through the vent tube onto parts of
the machine, resulting in severe corrosion.
3. Clean the cable ends and battery posts with steel wool.
Use a solution of baking soda and water to clean the
battery. Do not allow the solution to enter the battery
cells.
4. Tighten the cable connections securely and apply a
light coat of silicone dielectric grease to the terminal
connections to prevent corrosion.
5. Install the battery cover.
B. Charging the Battery
Refer to the battery charger’s manual for specific
instructions.
Under normal conditions the engine’s alternator will have
no problem keeping a charge on the battery. If the
battery has been completely discharged for a long period
of time, the alternator may not be able to recharge the
battery, and a battery charger will be required.
DO NOT charge a frozen battery. It may explode and
cause injury. Let the battery warm before attaching a
charger.
Whenever possible, remove the battery from the mower
before charging and make sure the electrolyte covers the
plates in all cells.
BATTERIES PRODUCE EXPLOSIVE GASES.
Charge the battery in a well ventilated space
so gases produced while charging can
dissipate.
Charging rates between 3 and 50 amperes are satisfactory
if excessive gassing or spewing of electrolyte does not
occur or the battery does not feel excessively hot (over
125°F). If spewing or gassing occurs or the temperature
exceeds 125°F, the charging rate must be reduced or
temporarily stopped to permit cooling.
C. Jump Starting
1. The booster battery must be a 12 volt type. If a
vehicle is used for jump starting, it must have a
negative ground system.
2. When connecting the jumper cables, connect the
positive cable to the positive battery post, then
connect the negative cable to the negative battery
post.