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A battery that's not being used will lose about 0.5 to 1.0 percent of its charge per day. This loss goes up during warm weather. Check your battery with a volt meter. It should read 12.8 volts for a sealed battery. If the battery is below this, it should be charged. I use the Battery Tender that charges and then maintains your battery. The Battery Tender comes with connectors that can be permanently installed on your battery terminals so you can just plug your bike in without taking off the seat.
CLEANING TERMINALS AND CONNECTORS
Keep the terminals and connectors clean. If the terminals and connectors become corroded, clean them with a wire brush and fine sandpaper or emery cloth.
CHECK THE CLAMPS AND CABLES
The most common cause of sudden battery failure is loose connections. Make sure the cables and clamps are tight. Don't let the tool you use touch any metal. You can wrap electrical tape around the tool to prevent any sparks.
CHECK THE VENT TUBE
Make sure there are no kinks or blockage in the vent tube.
WINTER STORAGE
I you're like us in the north, you probably put your bike away for the winter. You'll want to remove the battery, hook it up to the Battery Tender, and store in a cool dry place. Store it away from kids and pets.
Following these simple battery maintenance tips should keep your Harley battery working for years.
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