Basic Electrical Component Handling / Precautions for Vehicles Equipped with Computer Controlled Systems

  • Never disconnect the batteries while the key switch is on and the engine is running.

    Why: This can cause electrical voltage spikes that can damage electronic components.

  • Do not connect jumper cables while the key switch is on.

    Why: This can cause electrical voltage spikes that can damage electronic components.

  • Disconnect batteries prior to recharging (if possible)

    Why: Electrical loads in the machine can slow the recharging process. Battery chargers can cause electrical voltage spikes that can damage electronic components.

  • Never jump start the machine with a voltage higher than the machine is designed to operate on

    Why: This can damage electronic components

  • Do not connect or disconnect electrical connectors while the key switch is on or the machine is running.

    Why: This can cause computer system errors from interrupting a computer program while it is running and electrical voltage spikes that are produced can damage electronic components.

  • Do not apply power or ground to any component as a test unless specifically instructed to do so.

    Why: Connecting the wrong voltage to the wrong point of an electronic system can cause electronic component failures.

  • When welding on the machine, make sure to connect ground lead to the parts being welded. For maximum protection disconnect all electronic controllers before welding.

    Why: The high currents associated with welding can damage wiring harnesses that are involved in the ground path. Welding can also cause electrical voltage spikes that can damage electronic components.

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