To help prevent sparks from igniting combustible gases that are produced by some batteries, the negative "−" cable should be connected last from the external power source to the primary position for grounding.
Check the electrical wires daily for wires that are loose or frayed. Tighten all loose electrical connections before the engine is started. Repair all frayed electrical wires before the engine is started. See the Operation and Maintenance Manual for specific starting instructions.
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| Illustration 1 | g02383098 |
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Typical example (1) Ground to the battery (2) Primary position for grounding (3) Ground to the starting motor (4) Ground to the engine block | |
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| Illustration 2 | g02383099 |
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Typical example (5) Ground to the battery (6) Ground to the cylinder block | |
Correct grounding for the engine electrical system is necessary for optimum engine performance and reliability. Incorrect grounding will result in uncontrolled electrical circuit paths and in unreliable electrical circuit paths.
Uncontrolled electrical circuit paths can result in damage to the crankshaft bearing journal surfaces and to aluminum components.
Engines that are installed without engine-to-frame ground straps can be damaged by electrical discharge.
To ensure that the engine and the engine electrical systems function correctly, an engine-to-frame ground strap with a direct path to the battery must be used. This path may be provided by way of a direct engine ground to the frame.
The connections for the grounds should be tight and free of corrosion. The engine alternator must be grounded to the negative "-" battery terminal. The grounding wire must be adequate to handle the full charging current of the alternator.
The power supply connections and the ground connections for the engine electronics should always be from the isolator to the battery.