Jeep Cherokee XJ 1999 Manual - page 16
that could result in electrolyte leaks. Also, check the
battery terminal posts for looseness. Batteries with
damaged cases or loose posts must be replaced.
(7) Check the electrolyte level in the battery. Use a
putty knife or another suitable wide flat-bladed tool
to pry the cell caps off (Fig. 18). Do not use a screw-
driver. Add distilled water to each cell until the liq-
uid reaches the bottom of the vent well. DO NOT
OVERFILL.
(8) Inspect the battery built-in test indicator sight
glass for an indication of the battery condition. If the
battery is discharged, charge as required. Refer to
Built-In Test Indicator in the Diagnosis and Test-
ing section of this group for more information. Also
refer to Battery Charging in the Service Procedures
section of this group for more information.
(9) If the battery is to be reinstalled, clean the out-
side of the battery case and the top cover with a
sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water
cleaning solution to remove any acid film (Fig. 19).
Rinse the battery with clean water. Ensure that the
cleaning solution does not enter the battery cells
through the vent holes. If the battery is being
replaced, refer to Battery Ratings and Classifica-
tions in the Specifications section of this group. Con-
firm that the replacement battery is the correct size
and has the correct ratings for the vehicle.
(10) Clean any corrosion from the battery terminal
posts with a wire brush or a post and terminal
cleaner, and a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and
warm water cleaning solution (Fig. 20).
INSTALLATION
(1) Reinstall the battery thermoguard by sliding it
over the battery case.
(2) Position the battery in the tray. Ensure that
the positive and negative terminal posts are correctly
positioned. The cable terminal clamps must reach the
Fig. 17 Battery Hold Downs
Fig. 18 Removing Cell Caps - Typical
Fig. 19 Clean Battery - Typical
8A - 16
BATTERY
XJ
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)