Richardson's handbook of projection (1930)

1094 HANDBOOK OF PROJECTION FOR hydrometer syringe, etc. An equally efficient liquid having similar action is a solution of bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) and water in the proportion of a pound of soda to a gallon of water. WARNING. — In using ammonia or soda, be careful that none gets into the battery. The action of both, as I have said, is to neutralize the acid, which would, of course, weaken the electrolyte in proportion to the amount entering. Don't wet your cleaning cloth sopping wet. Just dampen it well with the ammonia or soda solution, and you will have no trouble. After cleaning with ammonia or bicarbonate solution, wipe off the battery with clean water and wipe dry. IMPORTANT.— Should electrolyte be spilled on the battery top, first having made certain that all filling plugs are tightly in place, wash it off with the ammonia or soda solution, wiping the top afterward with water, and then wipe perfectly dry when you have done. ADDING WATER.— Observe Fig. 404. The maximum water level is just below the lower rim of the filling hole, as therein shown. As to battery water, there is a misunderstanding regarding it. It is a fact that water may be used from the water mains of many cities, even though the pipes be of iron. Croton water here in New York City is safe for battery use. The water in the Borough of Queens, however, is artesian water and is not fit for use in batteries. The water from your own water service may be safe, also it may not be. Here is the rule : If you are in doubt about the water, write The Electric Storage Battery Service, Alleghany Avenue and Nineteenth Street, Philadelphia, Pa., and they will advise you definitely, asking for a quart sample