Basic Electrical Component Handling / Precautions For Vehicles Equipped With Computer Controlled Systems

Electrical Precautions To Take:

Never disconnect the batteries while the key switch 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 system 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 controller connectors before welding. Why: 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.

Directing pressurized water at electronic/electrical components or connectors, bearings and hydraulic seals, fuel injection pumps or other sensitive parts and components may cause product malfunctions. Reduce pressure, and spray at a 45 to 90 degree angle.