After the prop, the battery is probably the most neglected part of a ski, so what can we do to ensure that it doesn’t let us down? Chris Plunkett explains.

A lead acid battery, as used to start PWs, boats, cars and motorbikes is essentially an energy storage device – if you don’t put anything in then you won’t get anything out. And if you neglect it, then it will let you down.

WHAT DOES THE BATTERY DO?

It has one main function and that is to turn the engine over using the starter, with a number if other minor functions such as the clock and speedo (where fitted), and also for immobilizers and similar devices.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT BATTERY

Batteries are given an Ampere-hour (or A-h) rating. A typical size for a PW is 19 A-h, meaning it can give 19 amps for one hour, or how much power it can supply to the starter. But only if it is fully charged and has been maintained properly.

WHAT CAN I CHECK?

Check that all terminals, crimp connectors (inside as well) and wiring is clean and free from corrosion.

To keep them this way they should be coated with a small amount of high temperature water-resistant wheel bearing or lithium grease. Another trick is to make a copper sacrificial anode, and glue between the terminals.

Do a visual inspection of the fluid level inside the battery at least once a month, and top up when necessary – usually once of twice a year.

WHEN SHOULD I RECHARGE MY BATTERY?

If you use your PW every weekend it should never need any extra charging, but it can be permanently connected to an optimizer if you wish (see below).

WHAT DO I DO OVER WINTER?

Or for any other extended period of non-use. Bring it into the warmth of your house, where it will benefit from being connected permanently to an optimizer such as the Optimate III SP, which runs a microprocessor controlled maintenance (or float charge) cycle once it is fully charged.

WHAT DO I DO IN AN EMERGENCY?

There really is no substitute for a fully charged battery whjen you launch (I’d say it’s 100 per cent necessary), but if you do have to jump start a PW, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions very closely, as costly damage to the electrics can occur on some of the newer craft that have engine management systems. In all cases, a portable 12-volt booster pack should be safe. Don’t use another running engine.

The following sequence is critical for safe jump starting:

-       Connect the positive lead (dead battery end first).

-       Connect the earth lead (good battery end first, then to engine block on craft with dead battery).

-       Start the engine on craft with dead battery.

-       Disconnect in the reverse sequence.

Following this advice should keep your battery and watercraft running as sweet as the Duracell bunny!