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How to Install a Battery and Find its Date Code
Estimated read time: 2 minutes
Replacing your equipment’s battery yourself can save you money and downtime. And with these instructions on how to install a battery safely, you can see how simple it is.
If you need a new battery or anything else for maintenance, find it at Parts.Cat.com. Just enter your machine’s serial number to see the parts designed to work in your machine.
Before getting started, remember to check your Operation and Maintenance Manual (OMM) for proper safety procedures. And always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Watch this video to see how to install a battery and find its date code, and then read on for the written instructions:
Prepare for Service
To safely complete this service, park your equipment on dry, flat ground. Lower any implements to the ground and then lock out the hydraulics and turn off the engine.
Installing a Cat® Battery
To get started, mark the positive and negative cables so you can keep track of them for your safety. To remove the old battery:
- Disconnect the negative cable first — be careful because both cables may still be hot.
- Disconnect the positive cable.
- Remove the battery and clean out the tray or box.
Now make sure the cable ends are free of corrosion. You can remove corrosion with a baking soda or ammonia solution. Fine-grit sandpaper is another option if the corrosion is stubborn.
To install your new battery:
- Place it in the tray or box.
- Connect the positive cable and then the negative cable.
- Apply a bit of Cat® dielectric grease if needed.
- Install the hold down, if equipped, so the battery is secure.
Make sure the hold down isn’t too tight because that could damage the battery case.
Battery Date Codes
Your battery’s label has a date code that tells when it was manufactured. This means you don’t have to keep track of battery age yourself.
The first number tells you which month the battery was charged: 1 stands for January, 2 stands for February and so on.
And the second number tells you the year. If the number is 24, for example, that means it was made in 2024.
Now that you installed your battery and learned about its date code, you may want to check out how to inspect and clean your batteries. And we have instructions for down the line, when you need to test and charge your batteries.
For more information and support, contact your Cat dealer. And always check your Operation and Maintenance Manual for specific instruction and safety procedures.
