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Battery terminal corosion

Yahoo Message Number: 86104
I have two lead/acid, 8-D house batteries. There is a white crusty powder (lead oxide?) that collects on only the positive terminals. One battery definitely has a much heavier build-up than the other. The negative terminals seem clean.
I have to remove this corrosion and clean with baking soda every four months or so. The coach is idle from October through May in Palm Springs (moderate desert climate). I have the coach plugged in to 50 amp shore power during that period; so the batteries are maintaining charge.
I use an automatic battery fill jug that I purchased at an auto parts store to re-fill the batteries with distilled water about every 6 months. The batteries seem to hold a charge fine.
But, What is causing this nuisance corrosion to re-occur? Why only on the positive terminals? How can I prevent it?
One of the DIY posts on YouTube commented that the battery casing may have separated from the terminals over time allowing gas to escape and acid to wick up around the post: thus creating lead oxide. Their solution was to clean, install battery corrosion protectors (felt pad washers). Then, coat the whole terminal assembly liberally with petroleum jelly or dielectric grease.
Does this sound like a good solution? Any other suggestions would be appreciated.

Daron Hairabedian, 98 Allure 30226

Re: Battery terminal corosion

Reply #1
Yahoo Message Number: 86105
Daron: That is a good solution, in fact, my battery terminal connections all have grease fittings and I virtually never have to clean the terminals. Barrie Boas 94 Concept 5111

Re: Battery terminal corosion

Reply #2
Yahoo Message Number: 86106
Barrie,

Sounds like a great idea. I have never heard of this. Are these terminals readily available at NAPA and such? Daron

Re: Battery terminal corosion

Reply #3
Yahoo Message Number: 86107
Daron: My coach came with them. I assume they are available but I have never checked. Sorry I can't be of more help. Barrie Boas 94 Concept 5111

Re: Battery terminal corrosion

Reply #4
Yahoo Message Number: 86109
Barrie,

No problem. Thanks for quick responses and the good idea, anyway.
I will search it later.
Daron

Re: Battery terminal corosion

Reply #5
Yahoo Message Number: 86116
These zerk fittings used to be standard equipment in the old days.
Max

98 Affinity #5487

 

Re: Battery terminal corosion

Reply #6
Yahoo Message Number: 86198
I have searched Ebay, Napa and a few auto parts stores with no success. Am I missing something that is out there? Otherwise, I guess I will resort to hand greasing.

BTW. One auto parts attendant advised to seal joint between the post and the case with silicone seal. Has anyone ever done this with success? Daron