Checking and Cleaning the Battery, Battery Box, and Cable
- Remove any corrosion from the battery box and the top of
the battery. See Fig..
Use distilled ammonia or a soda solution to neutralize any acid present. Flush off the ammonia or soda solution with clear water.
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Negative Terminal
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Positive Terminal
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Clamp Assembly
Fig. 1, Battery Box
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- Check the battery cases for cracks. Replace a battery if its case is cracked.
- Disconnect the battery cables from the battery posts, and
check for corrosion.If corrosion is found, clean the terminals and posts, using a wire brush and a solution of baking soda and water. Use the solution sparingly.
- Connect the cables to the batteries, and tighten them 10 to 15 lbf·ft (14 to 20 N·m). Spray each connection terminal with dielectric red enamel.
- Check the battery-to-starter cables. Look for kinking, corrosion, breaks in the insulation, and heat damage. Check that the cable clamps are not bent, damaged, or stripped of insulation.
- Check the mounting fasteners for tightness, and tighten
them 60 lbf·ft (81 N·m) if necessary. The battery box
must be kept in good condition to support the batteries securely and
to keep them level.
Notice: Failure to keep the batteries held securely in place could result in battery damage, such as loose plates or posts.
Warning: Batteries generate explosive gas as a by-product of their chemical process. Do not smoke when working around batteries. Put out all flames and remove any source of sparks or intense heat in the vicinity of the battery compartment. Make sure the battery compartment has been completely vented before disconnecting or connecting the battery cables.
Battery acid is extremely harmful if splashed in the eyes or on the skin. Always wear a face shield and protective clothing when working around batteries.
Important: If a battery cable is damaged, replace the entire cable. Never splice a battery cable.