TECH TIP - ELECTRICALS CHECK

With winter now here, it’s time to check the electrical system of your telehandler - in particular the battery.

As temperatures drop, engines get harder to start and greater loads are applied to all the components of the electrical system. If the performance of your battery is poor, damage can occur to certain components such as the starter motor, alternator and solenoids.

The performance of your battery diminishes as the temperature of the battery drops; as temperatures approach freezing point, the performance of the battery can be reduced by up to 50%.

There are many areas of the starting system that should be checked to maintain optimum performance and get through the colder months.

• Connections at the starter motor, alternator, isolation switch and battery should be clean, tight and free of any corrosion

• Cables should be secure and free of corrosion

• Battery terminals should be coated in a corrosion inhibitor

• Low maintenance batteries should have the electrolyte (fluid) level checked and adjusted if necessary.

Note: Top up only with distilled water, never tap water or acid and do not overfill. If the electrolyte in one cell is lower than the others or darker than the others, this is a good indication that the battery is on the way out.

The battery should also be load tested When your telehandler is not being used, the best way to ensure the battery is maintained in its optimum condition is to use a battery maintainer/ charger. These devises are typically 240V or solarpowered and maintain the batteries’ charge at the optimum level, thereby, extending the life of all the components of the electrical system.

SAFETY NOTE: Safety glasses should be worn at all times when working on or around batteries and

safety goggles must be worn when working with electrolyte.

For a professional winter check of your electrical system, call us today on 133 293.