131.12 BATTERY REQUIREMENTSS ee the Specifications section for correct battery size and rating If the AUTO/OFF/MANUAL switch is not set to itsOFF position, the generator can crank and startas soon as the battery cables are connected. Ifthe utility power supply is not turned off, spark-ing can occur at the battery posts and cause anexplosion.1.13 BATTERY INSTALLATIONFill the battery with the proper electrolyte fluid if necessary andhave the battery fully charged before installing it.Before installing and connecting the battery, complete the follow-ing steps:1. S et the generator's AUTO/O FF/MANUAL switch to O FF.2. Turn off utility power supply to the transfer switch.3. R e move the 7.5A fuse from the generator control panel.Battery cables were factory connected at the generator ( Figure1.11) . Connect cables to battery posts as follows:4. Connect the red battery cable ( from starter contactor) to thebattery post indicated by a positive, P OS or ( + ) .5. Connect the black battery cable ( from fra m e ground ) to thebattery post indicated by a negative, NE G or (—) .Figure 1.11 – Battery Cable ConnectionsNOTE:Dielectric grease should be used on battery posts toaid in the prevention of corrosion.NOTE:Damage will result if battery connections are madein reverse.NOTE:In areas where temperatures regularly fall below 10°F (-12° C) it is recommended that a pad type batteryheater be installed to aid in cold climate starting.1.14 THE BATTERYDANGER Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. Thebattery is capable of exploding. A battery presents a risk of electrical shockand high short circuit current. The following pre-cautions are to be observed when working onbatteries:• Remove the 7.5A fuse from the generator controlpanel.• Remove watches, rings or other metal objects;• Use tools with insulated handles;• Wear rubber gloves and boots;• Do not lay tools or metal parts on top of thebattery; and• Disconnect charging source prior to connecting ordisconnecting battery terminals.Do not open or mutilate the battery. Releasedelectrolyte has been known to be harmful to theskin and eyes, and to be toxic.The electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that isharmful to the skin and eyes. It is electricallyconductive and corrosive.The following procedures are to be observed:• Wear full eye protection and protective clothing;• Where electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it offimmediately with water;• Where electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush thor-oughly and immediately with water and seek medi-cal attention; and• Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with anacid neutralizing agent. A common practice is touse a solution of 1 pound (500 grams) bicarbonateof soda to 1 gallon (4 liters) of water. The bicar-bonate of soda solution is to be added until theevidence of reaction (foaming) has ceased. Theresulting liquid is to be flushed with water and thearea dried. Lead-acid batteries present a risk of firebecause they generate hydrogen gas. The fol-lowingprocedures are to be followed:• DO NOT SMOKE when near the battery;• DO NOT cause flame or spark in battery area; and• Discharge static electricity from body beforetouching the battery by first touching a groundedmetal surface.Section 1 — General InformationAir-cooled Generators