Cummins/Onan 80MDKAL11454B — Battery Care (non maintenance-free battery)
Maintenance
For the Cummins/Onan 80MDKAL11454B, from the Cummins/Onan operator's manual.
Applies to: Cummins/Onan MDKAL, Kubota D1005 engine
Before you start
- Batteries present the hazard of explosion; do not smoke or allow any ignition source around the battery area.
- Do not disconnect battery cables while the generator set is cranking or running.
- Battery electrolyte can cause severe eye damage and burns to the skin; wear goggles, rubber gloves and a protective apron.
Procedure
- Keep the battery case clean and dry.
- Make certain battery cable connections are clean and tight; use a terminal puller tool to remove the cables.
- Remove corrosion from terminal connections; wash with an ammonia solution or 1/4 pound (about 100 grams) baking soda in 1 quart (about 1 liter) of water.
- After cleaning, flush the outside of the battery and surrounding areas with clean water.
- Identify the cable as positive (+) or negative (-); always connect the negative (-) cable last.
- Maintain electrolyte level by adding distilled water; fill each cell to the split-level marker.
- Use a battery hydrometer to check specific gravity of each cell; charge if below 1.215.
- Stop charging when electrolyte specific gravity reaches 1.260 at approximately 80 F (27 C).
Tools required
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- Specific gravity should be 1.260 at 80 F (27 C)
- Charge battery if specific gravity measures less than 1.215
Full service-parts list: Cummins/Onan MDKAL →, Kubota D1005 engine →
Source: Cummins/Onan operator's manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.