How to Install a Riding Lawn Mower Battery

Keeping a riding mower in good condition makes the task of mowing grass much easier. One thing that has to be done to maintain a riding mower is changing the battery. Changing the battery on a riding lawn mower is a simple task, but can become dangerous if not properly done. The most common reason for changing a battery is because the battery is dead. The steps in this article are easy to follow, but should be followed to prevent damage to the mower or bodily injury.

Things You'll Need

• New battery
• Eye protection
• Rubber gloves
• 2 combination wrenches to fit battery bolts
• Socket wrench to fit metal hold down (if equipped)

Instructions

1. Put on gloves and eye protection. The gloves are to shield your hands from any charge that may remain in the battery.

2. Remove the battery hold-down. Some mowers have rubber strap hold-downs and others have metal bracket hold-downs like an automobile.

3. Remove the negative cable from the battery first.

4. Remove the positive cable from the battery.

5. Remove battery from holding tray or case. Take care not to touch both terminals at the same time or the positive terminal to anything metal.

6. Place new battery in tray and reconnect battery cables--positive first, then negative.

7. Reinstall battery hold-down.

Tips & Warnings

• While the battery is removed from the mower, the cable ends can be cleaned with vinegar and baking soda or Coke. Never store a charged battery on concrete because this will drain the charge from the battery.

• Always wear eye protection, because batteries are dangerous and could explode. Never touch both terminals at the same time; you could get shocked. Never touch the positive terminal to anything metal on the mower. This could cause the battery to explode. Never remove the battery caps. Batteries contain acid that will burn skin.

References

• Lawn Mower Battery Maintenance