2012 Sportsman 400/500 and EFI Tractor Service Manual 9923412, Page 417Get this manual
ELECTRICAL Low Maintenance Battery Charging Procedure
1Remove the battery from the ATV to prevent damage from leaking or spilled acid during charging2Charge the battery with variable rate charging outputCharge as needed to raise the specific gravity to 1.270 or greater3Install battery in vehicle with positive terminal toward the frontCoat threads of battery bolt with corrosion resistant NyogelTM Grease (PN 2871329)4Route cables so they are tucked away in front and behind battery5Connect battery cables
Low Maintenance Battery Off-season Storage
Battery voltage should be checked with digital multitesterReadings of 12.8 volts or less require further battery testing and chargingSee charts and Load Test Remove the battery from the machine and wash the case and battery tray with mild solution of baking soda and waterRinse with lots of fresh water after cleaning Using wire brush or knife, remove any corrosion from the cables and terminals Make sure that the electrolyte is at the proper level Charge at rate no greater than 110 of the battery's amphr capacity until the electrolyte's specific gravity reaches 1.270 or greater Store the battery either in the machine with the cables disconnected, or store in cool placeNOTE: Stored batteries lose their charge at the rate of per dayRecharge to full capacity every 30 to 60 days during non-use periodIf the battery is stored during the winter months, electrolyte will freeze at higher temperatures as the battery dischargesThe chart below indicates freezing points by specific gravity