Disconnecting Cleaning Bat Cables & Terminals

2ndhom wrote:
I'm seeing a white powder at the bottom of the battery tray as well as some around the cable/terminals.
I've taken pictures of the ( 4 ) 6 volts and ( 2 ) 12 volts so I know where to return the cables/wires to their origunal location. I'm sure I should turn off the main switches. I see a couple of smaller wires connected to the terminals .... could those be from the roof solar? If so I should probably tape them. What additional procedure should I go thru or things to look for. Oh, I have also noticed the 6 volt bats don't stay charged as long as they used to ..... may need replacing?

I think I would not only take pictures, but also make up a drawing....sometimes it's a little difficult to see a picture accurately.

Yes, you need to turn the disconnect switches to the off position.

The couple of smaller wires could be just about anything. I would check them with a voltmeter once they are removed from the battery terminal to see if they have voltage on them....if they do, wrap them, if not, don't worry about them.

You didn't mention how old your 6v batteries are. If they are six or more years old, I think i would look into replacing them.

Once you have the batteries out, wet the batteries and tray with water, and then sprinkle baking soda on them. Let is stew for a minute or two and then spray off. Might need to do it another time to get all the corrosion off. Dry everything and then use a battery terminal cleaner (little wire do-dad) to make the terminals and cables nice and shiny. If the paint on the tray has deteriorated any, I would get some of that rubberized paint (spray can from auto parts store) and give it a good couple of coats.

Reinstall the batteries and cables according to the picture and drawing. Measure voltage at a point closest to the batter cut off switch to insure everything is connected correctly before turning on the switches.

Hope this helps

Ron