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Battery Maintenance and Replacement

Conventional Batteries

Batteries should be inspected for damage or leaks and cleaned every 30 days, and the fluid level checked. Batteries contain sulfuric acid, which is highly corrosive and can cause damage or injury. Use baking soda to neutralize any acid spills, but do not get baking soda in the battery. To add water to the battery, remove it from the motorcycle, remove the filler caps and add distilled water until the fluid level is between the upper and lower level lines on the battery case. Do not use tap water as it contains minerals that can shorten the life of the battery. Do not overfill the battery as this can cause acid leaks. Replace the filler caps carefully, do not over tighten them as they break very easily and can not be purchased separately. When reinstalling the battery, be sure to connect the vent hose and rout it properly. The battery will need to be charged every 30 days if the motorcycle is not being used. Always use a charger designed specifically for motorcycles as an automotive charger can damage the battery.

Maintenance Free Batteries (MF)

In spite of their name, MF batteries do require a minimal amount of maintenance. Batteries should be inspected for damage or leaks and cleaned every 30 days. The battery will need to be charged every 30 days if the motorcycle is not being used. Always use a charger designed specifically for motorcycles as an automotive charger can damage the battery.

Replacement

For safety reasons, remove the negative (ground) cable first and then the positive cable from the battery posts. This will prevent any arcing or sparking that could cause a fire or explosion. If you are removing the ground cable first and the wrench or screwdriver you are using accidentally touches the frame, you are simply connecting ground to ground and there will be no damage or sparking. If, however, you remove the positive cable first and the tool touches the frame, you are creating a direct short circuit (positive to negative) and there will be sparking and voltage spikes that could cause a fire or damage any of the electrical components. When installing the battery, connect the positive cable first and the negative cable last for the same reasons.

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