Maintenance of your Motorcycle Batteries
Filed Under Motorcycle Batteries |
For motorcycle batteries to perform perfectly only a little monthly maintenance is required. The big brands are starting to push their maintenance free models but you still need to do some basics. Keep the battery charged to 100%, recharging when the lights dim, the starter sounds weak, or the battery hasn’t been used in more than two weeks. Other than that, follow this simple check list every month:
The basic guidelines for maintaining your motorcycle batteries:
1. Keep the top of motorcycle batteries clean, dry and free of dirt.
2. Clean the terminals for the prevention of corrosion.
3. Check the electrolyte level. For conventional motorcycle batteries, make sure to keep the acid level between upper and lower lines indicated on the container.
4. Check inside motorcycle batteries for excessive sediment, sulfation or mossing. You should probably read this first.
5. Make sure the exhaust tube is free of kinks and clogs and check cables, clamps, and case for obvious damage or loose connections.
6. Replace caps firmly
7. Do not let the battery stand in a discharged condition.
8. Charge battery once a month.
9. If you store your motorcycle for a long period of time (~ 30 days), plug in a good quality battery charger to maintain a proper charge.
10. Protect motorcycle batteries from strong impacts or shocks. Don’t drop it!
Finish up by testing your motorcycle batteries with either a hydrometer or voltmeter. Make monthly battery maintenance part of your routine to extend the service life of your battery,
Storing Your Battery
If your motorcycle is in storage or used infrequently, the battery cable should be disconnected to eliminate drain from electrical equipment. Charge the battery every two weeks.
For an extended storage period, it’s best to remove the battery from the motorcycle and charge it to 100%. If stored at temperatures below 60° F, charge the battery every month. If you are going to store it in a warm area (above 60° F), it’s best to charge it every two weeks. Make sure that the batteries are stored out of the reach of children.
For safety information relating your motorcycle batteries, click here.
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