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DougE's avatar
DougE
Explorer
Aug 29, 2014

Side Terminal Batteries Get Corrosion Too

I just replaced the 6 year old battery in my 1998 GMC Sonoma. I noticed a little white corrosion on the positive cable terminal threads and decided to clean it. On closer inspection I found a heavy layer of corrosion on the washer that the bolt passes through. It took a bunch of scraping, brushing and Detoxit-ing to remove the corrosion back down to the copper surface. So when you replace your battery don't just assume that side terminal connection is corrosion free.
  • MEXICOWANDERER's avatar
    MEXICOWANDERER
    Explorer
    Aug 29, 2014
    Side terminal 74, 77, and 78's are designed for HOOD CLEARANCE.

    The terminals are actually a PITA to maintain.

    I gave up and fasten terminals with a 3/8" X 24 (316) stainless steel bolt and jam nut. The bolt will grab 3 threads extra than the OEM side terminal bolt, and the jam nut makes the connection stay tight.

    Try filling in the gap between the lead post and case with electrolytic grease. Pack it in with your finger. This works well. Then coat the completed assembly with silicone grease. Fit a length of hear shrink tubing over the bolt to stop potential of shorts.
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Aug 29, 2014
    I had to clean my original every 2-3 years.. My new DEKA... I have not yet had to clean, but it is still less than one year old.

    Alas,, The engine needs renewal,:( but the battery is GOOD :)

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