Cummins/Onan — Battery Cleaning
Maintenance
From a Cummins/Onan operator's manual covering: P216, P218, P220. Check it applies to your exact model before use.
Applies to: Cummins/Onan P216, Cummins/Onan P218, Cummins/Onan P220
Before you start
- Ignition of explosive battery gases can result in severe personal injury. Do not smoke or allow any ignition source near the battery.
Procedure
- Keep the battery clean by wiping it with a damp cloth whenever dirt appears excessive.
- If corrosion is present around terminal connections, remove battery cables.
- Wash terminals with an ammonia solution or a solution of 1/4 pound baking soda in 1 quart water.
- Be sure vent plugs are tight to prevent cleaning solution from entering the cells.
- Flush outside of battery, battery compartment, and surrounding areas with clear water.
- Keep battery terminals clean and tight; coat terminals with petroleum jelly or non-conductive grease.
Tools required
- Damp cloth Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- 1/4 pound of baking soda added to 1 quart of water
Full service-parts list: Cummins/Onan P216 →, Cummins/Onan P218 →, Cummins/Onan P220 →
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.