8.15
ELECTRICAL
8
9923983 - 2012-2013 RZR 170 Service Manual
© Copyright 2012 Polaris Sales Inc.
Battery Removal
To remove the battery:
1. Remove the driver’s seat to access the battery.
2. Disconnect the hold-down strap securing the battery
in position.
3. Disconnect the black negative (-) battery cable first.
4. Disconnect the red positive (+) battery cable last.
5. Lift the battery out of the compartment.
Battery Cleaning
Keep the battery terminals and connections free of
corrosion. If cleaning is necessary, remove the 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 Installation
1. Place the fully charged battery in its holder.
2. Attach the hold-down strap(s).
3. Connect and tighten the red positive (+) cable first.
4. Connect and tighten the black negative (-) cable last.
5. Torque the battery terminal bolts to 3.5 ft. lbs. (4.7 Nm)
6. Verify that the cables are properly routed.
NOTE: When installing a new battery, make sure it's
fully charged prior to its initial use. Using a new
battery that has not been fully charged can damage
the battery and result in a shorter life. It can also
hinder vehicle performance. If charging is
necessary, use a .5 amp battery charger.
Battery Voltage Test
Battery voltage should be checked with a digital multi-
tester. Readings of 12.8 or less require further battery
testing and charging. See Load Test.
NOTE: Batteries should be kept at or near a full
charge as possible. If the battery is stored or used in
a partially charged condition, crystal sulfation will
form on the plates, reducing the efficiency and
service life of the battery.
Battery Load Test
A battery may indicate a full charge condition in the battery
voltage test and the specific gravity test, but still may not
have the storage capacity necessary to properly function
in the electrical system.
For this reason, a battery capacity or load test should be
conducted whenever poor battery performance is
suspected. To perform this test:
1. Connect a multi-tester to the battery in the same
manner as was done in the battery voltage test. The
reading should be 12.8 volts or greater.
2. Engage the electric starter and view the registered
battery voltage while cranking the engine. Continue
the test for 15 seconds. During this cranking period,
the observed voltage should not drop below 9.5 volts.
3. If the beginning voltage is 12.8 or higher and the
cranking voltage drops below 9.5 volts during the test,
replace the battery.
Improperly connecting or disconnecting battery
cables can result in an explosion and cause
serious injury or death. When removing the
battery, always disconnect the negative (black)
cable first.
When reinstalling the battery, always connect
the negative (black) cable last.
To reduce the chance of sparks:
Whenever removing the battery, disconnect the
negative (black) cable first. When reinstalling the
battery, install the negative cable last.
Remove the spark plug high tension lead and
connect securely to engine ground before
proceeding.