c. Adjust voltage regulator to keep the battery properly charged. Too-high settings increase
water consumption and heat. Too-low settings result in low specific gravity readings and little water
consumption.
d. In cold weather, add any necessary battery water just before the locomotive goes into service.
Water, if it stands without mixing with the electrolyte, will freeze and damage the battery.
e. Keep the battery clean and dry. If soda is used on the cover, be sure that none of it gets into
the cells. Keep all connections clean and tight.
f. Normal hydrometer readings vary from 1,280 when charged to 1,160 when discharged.
g. The following safety rules are important: open the main battery switch when working on the
battery, keep flames and oil away from it, and do not lay tools on top if it.
2.29.
BEARINGS
The term "antifriction bearings" is applied to all ball or roller bearings to distinguish the roller
from the sleeve bearing. If properly applied and lubricated, ball or roller bearings need much less
attention then sleeve bearings. They are in general use for main generators, armatures of traction motors,
belt-driven auxiliary generators and exciters, blower motors, and nearly all electrical rotating apparatus.
Each time a motor is overhauled, clean, inspect, and repack the roller bearings.
Clean bearing parts with kerosene or other petroleum cleaner. Do not allow them to lie around
with old grease in them. Do not use compressed air on a bearing; it may contain moisture which would
cause corrosion of races or rollers. Do not take cages apart.
Inspect bearing parts for flaking or cracks, pitting, signs of wear, and any excessive amount of
dirt. Examine side surface and bore of inner race for evidence of rubbing or turning on the shaft and
outer race and commutator-end bearings (traction motor) for smearing on flange and thrust collar.
To prevent corrosion, dip bearing in SAE 10 mineral oil heated to 203 F., immediately after
cleaning. Drain bearing and wrap it in waxed paper to keep it clean. Clean bearing housings and
adjacent parts with kerosene or other petroleum cleaner. After
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