Mercury Mariner 200, 225 Optimax Outboards Service Manual, 90-855348, Page 73Get this manual
Winter Storage of Batteries Battery companies are not responsible for battery damage either in winter storage or in dealer stock if the following instructions are not observed: 1Remove battery from its installation as soon as possible and remove all grease, sulfate and dirt from top surface by running water over top of batteryBe sure, however, that vent caps are tight beforehand, and blow off all excess water thoroughly with compressed airCheck water level, making sure that plates are covered2When adding distilled water to battery, be extremely careful notto fill more than 316" (4.8mm) above perforated baffles inside batteryBattery solution or electrolyte expands from heat caused by chargingOverfilling battery will cause electrolyte to overflow (if filled beyond 316" above baffles)
3Grease terminal bolts well with 2-4-C Marine Lubricant and store battery in COOL-DRY placeRemove battery from storage every 30-45 days, check water level and put on charge for or hours at amperesDO NOT FAST CHARGE4If specific gravity drops below 1.240, check battery for reason and rechargeWhen gravity reaches 1.260, discontinue chargingTo check specific gravity, use hydrometer, which can be purchased locally5Repeat preceding charging procedure every 30-45 days, as long as battery is in storage, for best possible maintenance during inactive periods to ensure good serviceable battery in springWhen ready to place battery back in service, remove excess grease from terminals (a small amount is desirable on terminals at all times), recharge again as necessary and reinstall battery