FixVault

Battery System: Cleaning

The following information details the recommended cleaning procedures for the battery and related components. It is recommended that these procedures be performed any time the battery or related components must be removed (if required).

  1. Clean the battery cable terminal clamps (2) of all corrosion. Remove any corrosion using a wire brush or a post and terminal cleaning tool (1), and a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water cleaning solution.
    Fig 1: Cleaning Battery Cable Terminal Clamps
    G03519809Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
  2. Clean the battery tray and battery hold down hardware of all corrosion. Remove any corrosion using a wire brush (1) and a sodium bicarbonate (baking 1 soda) and warm water cleaning solution (2). Paint any exposed bare metal.
  3. If the removed battery is to be reinstalled, clean the outside of the battery case and the top cover with a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water cleaning solution (2) using a stiff bristle parts cleaning brush (1) to remove any acid film. Rinse the battery with clean water. Ensure that the cleaning solution does not enter the battery cells through the vent holes. If the battery is being replaced, confirm that the replacement battery is the correct size and has the correct ratings for the vehicle.
  4. Clean the battery thermal guard with a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water cleaning solution (2) using a stiff bristle parts cleaning brush (1) to remove any acid film.
    Fig 2: Cleaning Battery And Battery Plate
    G03519810Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
  5. Clean any corrosion from the battery terminal posts (2) with a wire brush or a post and terminal cleaner (1) and a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water cleaning solution.
    Fig 3: Cleaning Corrosion From Battery Terminal Posts
    G03519811Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.