Battery Check
- Make sure the batteries are disconnected.
- Inspect the battery cables for wear and replace as needed.
Clean cable connector terminals with a wire brush. Consult your Western
Star Dealer for troubleshooting, adjustment, and battery replacement.
- Clean and tighten the battery cables, terminals, and clamps.
- Inspect the battery hold-down assembly and the battery box. Replace worn or damaged parts. Remove any corrosion with a wire brush, and wash with a weak solution of baking soda and water. Rinse with clean water, and dry. If needed, paint the retainer assembly to prevent corrosion.
- Check that foreign objects, such as stones, bolts, and nuts are removed from the battery box.
- After cleaning, connect the cables to the batteries, and tighten them to the specification listed on the battery. If no specifications are found, then use 10 to 15 lbf·ft (14 to 20 N·m).
- Coat the battery terminals with dielectric grease.
- Check the terminals on the battery shut-off switch and the magnetic switch. Make sure the terminal connections are clean and tight. Coat the terminal connections with dielectric red enamel after cleaning.
Warning: Batteries generate explosive gas as a by-product of their chemical process. Do not smoke when working around batteries. Put out all flames and remove any source of sparks or intense heat in the vicinity of the battery compartment. Make sure the battery compartment has been completely vented before disconnecting or connecting the battery cables.
Battery acid is extremely harmful if splashed in the eyes or on the skin. Always wear a face shield and protective clothing when working around batteries.
Caution: The vehicle is equipped with an alternator charging system. Make sure the polarity (+ and –) is correct when connecting battery cables. Reversing the polarity will damage the alternator.