Please keep in mind when reading our tips, that due to liabilities, Mobuilt RV Repair, is not liable for any damages that may occur by following any tips listed. Please remember these are only suggestions. Following these RV tips is at your own risk. Thank you for understanding.

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• Batteries which are already filled and charged must be stored in an upright position.

• Stacks should never be more than 3 batteries high and, if the batteries are not in cartons, there should be plywood or fiberboard between each layer to avoid unstable stacks

• Side-terminal batteries must be stacked so that there is no chance that the terminals on two batteries could touch each other.

• If batteries are stored in metal racks, make sure that there is enough room between the racks so that the batteries can be put into position without risk that terminals could be short- circuited on metal rails.

• Batteries should be checked for transit damage, cracks and electrolyte leaks before they are put into storage.

• Storage conditions should be dry, cool and ventilated. Temperatures of 50~- 60øF considerably reduce the rate of self-discharge which all charged batteries suffer as compared with storage at 80--100øE.

• Batteries in storage should be checked periodically for condition. If open-circuit voltage falls below 12.50 (on nominal 12-volt batteries) the battery should be recharged.

• Batteries should be taken from storage so that the oldest is used first.

• Keep vent caps in place during storage and prohibit smoking, welding and other work involving the use of flames in the storage area.

• Obtain a suitable volume of Battery Grade electrolyte solution which has a specific gravity of 1.265 or 1.280 at 80øF (27øC).
• Select the battery from stock according to age-the oldest of a type first.
• Check the battery for signs of container/ coverage damage which may allow electrolyte leaking.
• Check the temperature of the electrolyte. If it is below 60øF and, especially if the battery is also cold, let it warm up to about 80øF.
• Carefully fill each cell with electrolyte until it is clearly visible below the fill well.
• Allow the electrolyte to soak into the plates for 20 to 30 minutes. Then add further electrolyte to each cell to bring the levels to about 1/4" below the bottom of the fill well.
• Measure the electrolyte temperature. If it has increased by more than 10øF during the soaking period, this is a clear indication that the battery will benefit from an initial charge.
• Charge the battery at a current rate no higher than 1% of the Cold Cranking Performance Rating (CCA) until all cells are gassing. Keep vent caps in position during the charge.
• Switch off the charger; disconnect the battery; recheck the electrolyte levels and adjust if necessary.
• Clean and dry the cover surfaces and the terminal posts; refit the vent caps.
• Check the battery on a high-rate discharge tester and it is ready for fitting.

• Fifth Wheelers: About the breakaway switch on the gooseneck: If you pull it out to "lock" the wheels when parked, you'll run the batteries down and eventually break the mechanism. Don't do it!