Cab Load Disconnect Switch
Warning: Turning the cab load disconnect switch (CLDS) to the off position does not disconnect power to all electrical components (e.g. the starter and sSAM). To work on the vehicle safely, the negative leads must be disconnected from the battery.
The cab load disconnect switch can be used to disconnect the circuits between the battery and the battery cable access box (BCA), minimizing the power draw on the battery when the vehicle is parked for an extended period of time.
The CLDS may be mounted in a variety of location, including:
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inside the cab on the outboard side of the driver's seat;
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behind the cab on the driver's side;
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at the battery box.
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outside of the cab.
The ignition must be turned OFF before turning the cab load disconnect switch ON or OFF.
The CLDS is set to ON for normal daily use. When the CLDS is set to ON, a steady red LED indicator at the base of the switch selector illuminates. See Fig..
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LED Indicator Light
Fig. 1, Cab Load Disconnect Switch
A flashing red LED indicates an error with the CLDS. Take the vehicle to an authorized Freightliner service center for diagnostics.
The CLDS should be set to OFF if the vehicle will be parked for more than two days. However, even with the CLDS OFF, the vehicle still draws a small amount of battery power. If parking the vehicle for more than five days, disconnect the batteries.
Important: If the vehicle is driven while the CLDS is set to the OFF position, the vehicle will run on the emergency power feed but the batteries will not be charging. The Emergency Power Mode will activate.