Content Source: Polaris Power® P5500 and P6500 Owner’s Manual (9931064 R02) > Maintenance Chapter

IMPORTANT

The Owner's Manual for this vehicle contains warnings, instructions and other information you must read and fully understand before safely riding or performing maintenance on this vehicle.Always follow the warnings and instructions in Owner's Manual.

Click the CONTENTS link above for the Table Of Contents, or download a full PDF of the Owner Manual in the Owner Support area of Polaris.com

Battery

WARNING
Always disconnect the negative (black) cable first when removing the battery. Always connect the negative (black) cable last during installation. Failure to properly connect/disconnect battery cables may result in an explosion and cause serious injury or death.
Battery electrolyte contains sulfuric acid which is poisonous and can cause serious burns. Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Ensure proper protective gloves, goggles, and clothing are worn. If eyes are exposed, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. If external contact, flush with water. If ingested, drink large quantities of water or milk. Follow with milk of magnesia, beaten egg, or vegetable oil. Seek immediate attention.
Overheating of battery may cause an explosion, and severe injury or death. Stop charging if the battery becomes very warm to the touch. Allow battery to completely cool before resuming charging.
IMPORTANT
Always keep battery terminals and connections free of corrosion. Avoid spilling of electrolyte. Damage to equipment may result.
Immediately wash off any electrolyte spills with a solution of one tablespoon baking soda and one cup water.If cleaning is necessary, remove corrosion with a stiff wire brush. Wash with a solution of one tablespoon baking soda and one cup water. Rinse well with tap water and dry off with clean shop towels. Coat the terminals with dielectric grease or petroleum jelly.

Battery Removal

  1. Access the battery from below the control panel.
  2. Disconnect the black (negative) battery cable first by removing the M5 screw.
  3. Disconnect the red (positive) battery cable last by removing the M5 screw.
  4. Disconnect the battery hold-down strap.
  5. Lift the battery out of the generator.

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Battery Installation

Using a new battery that has not been fully charged can damage the battery and result in a shorter life. It can also hinder generator performance. Follow the instructions in the Battery Charging section before installing the battery.
  1. Ensure that the battery is fully charged.
  2. Place the battery in the battery holder.
  3. Coat the terminals with dielectric grease or petroleum jelly.
  4. Secure the battery hold-down strap.
  5. Connect and tighten the red (positive) cable first.
  6. Connect and tighten the black (negative) cable last.
  7. Verify that cables are properly routed. Cables should be safely tucked away at the front and rear of the battery.

Battery Maintenance and Charging

WARNING
An overheated battery may explode, causing severe injury or death. Always watch charging times carefully. Stop charging if the battery becomes very warm to the touch. Allow it to cool before resuming charging.
The sealed battery is already filled with electrolyte and has been sealed and fully charged at the factory. Never pry the sealing strip off or add any other fluid to this battery.
The single most important thing about maintaining a sealed battery is to keep it fully charged. Check the battery voltage with a voltmeter or multimeter. A fully charged battery will register 12.8 V or higher. If the voltage falls below 12.5V, charge it immediately, or the battery runs the risk of sulfation and reduced battery life.
If you do not use the generator for more than TWO WEEKS, Polaris recommends maintaining the battery through the use of a trickle charger. During charging, place the charger outside of the generator and protect it from moisture.

Battery Storage

If you plan to store the generator for ONE MONTH or longer, remove the battery from the generator, then store the battery in a cool and dry location. Continue to maintain the battery with a trickle charge.
When using an automatic charger, refer to the charger manufacturer's instructions for recharging. and by following the guidelines below. Always verify battery condition before and 1-2 hours after charge completion.
State of Charge Voltage (DC) Action Charge Time*
100% 12.8-13.0 volts None, check monthly None required
75%-100% 12.6-12.8 volts May need slight charge, if no charge given, check in 2 weeks 3-6 hours
50%-75% 12.3-12.6 volts Needs charge 5-11 hours
25%-50% 12.0-12.3 volts Needs charge At least 13 hours
0%-25% 12.0 volts or less Needs charge At least 20 hours

* Using AGM specific charger at standard amps specified on top of battery

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