HOW TO REMOVE AND FIT A BATTERY
- Before removing the old battery, note which terminal (+) of (-) is connected to the earth cable. The earth cable is always connected to the engine and chassis.
- Disconnect the earth cable first to prevent sparks caused by accidental short circuiting.
- Disconnect the positive cable from the terminal post and then remove the battery hold-downs. Finally remove the battery from the vehicle.
- Inspect the battery tray, hold-downs and clamps and replace items damaged by excessive corrosion. Use a wire brush to clean corrosion from battery tray and clamps.
- Clean all corrosion from tray, hold-downs and cables. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Severely corroded components should be washed and neutralised by using a solution of Bicarbonate of Soda mixed with warm water (10 grams, or 1 tablespoon, to 1 litre of water).
- Using a post and clamp cleaner, clean both battery terminals and inside both cable clamps until they have a bright metalic shine. The cleaning ensures good electrical contact.
- Carefully place the new battery in the tray making certain the (+) and (-) terminals are in the same positive in relation to the earth cable (as noted in Step 1). This procedure ensures correct polarity. Replace the battery hold-downs but do not tighten at this point.
- Follow the reverse of the procedure in removing the battery (as noted in Step 2).
- Connect the positive cable first, and then connect the earth cable. Make sure both cable connections to the terminals are tight. Coat the terminals and cable clamps with petroleum jelly or a terminal protector. Do not use grease which may contain metal additives.
- The hold-down nuts can now be tightened securely. Do not over tighten.
- Installation is complete. To ensure battery is installed correctly, turn ignition key on. If battery is properly installed, the ammeter or charge indicator will show discharged. Crank the engine; once the engine is running the ammeter or charge indicator light should function correctly. It is advisable to always have the vehicle’s charging system checked after fitment of a new battery.
Caution: Certain motor manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes Benz and Audi require that a slave battery or alternative electrical supply be connected before removing and installation of a new battery. Failure to do so could result in:
- Damage to the vehicle’s electronic management system.
- Loss of all electronic management system coding for radios, windows, seats etc.
- Therefore always refer to the owner’s manual for correct fitment procedure.