Battery problems.

DavieGravy · #1 10-07-2002, 02:47 PM

I've recently had troubles starting my car due to excessive build up of crap that accumulates around the positve contact. The build up accumulated VERY QUICKLY after I took out my battery and put it back in several weeks ago. I've since cleaned it off (destroyed the clip on the end of the cable while doing so by overtightening) and it's working fine. I'm just curious as to why so much muck in such a short amount of time?
Thanks.

Aredubjay · #2 10-07-2002, 02:58 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DavieGravy
I've recently had troubles starting my car due to excessive build up of crap that accumulates around the positve contact. The build up accumulated VERY QUICKLY after I took out my battery and put it back in several weeks ago. I've since cleaned it off (destroyed the clip on the end of the cable while doing so by overtightening) and it's working fine. I'm just curious as to why so much muck in such a short amount of time?
Thanks.

Davie,
I'm having the same problem on my "New" car, with the build-up. There seems to be a lot of "gunk" on the "hold down." That may be causing the excessive oxidation. On my "old" one, I have absolutely no build up at all.

I'm going to use the follwing treatment to remove the build up on the "New" one. Mix a couple of teaspons of baking soda in a quart jar of water. Disconnect the terminals and pour the soda/water mixture on the terminals and posts and anywhere corrosion is found. This will neutralize the acid. Wipe the excess off with a rag (make sure it's one you want to throw away. It WILL be ruined). Before replacing the terminals, coat the bottom of the posts with a layer of vaseline. Then, replace the terminals and coat the terminals (all over) with vaseline. This will keep them from re-corroding.

Beav · #3 10-07-2002, 04:05 PM

The posts are sealed to the case. When you get a little overzealous with them the seal breaks and allows the corrosive gas in the battery to exit under the clamp. The one sure cure that I know of is to take the lid from a tennis ball can and cut a hole in the center of it, just big enough to make a tight fit over the post. Then place the lid over the post and reinstall the clamp. This will divert the fumes far enough away from the clamp. Best bet - if your battery is still in the free to cheap range of its warranty have it replaced. Second best bet - each time you wash your car pop the hood open and rinse the top of the battery.

DavieGravy · #4 10-08-2002, 12:25 AM

Thanks. I'll coat it with vasaline and put a tennis ball container lid over the positive post.

I have been washing under the hood from time to time, but it's built up so quickly it doesn't matter. I guess I must have really disturbed those posts! Or it could be a real cheap battery.