Revision as of 07:32, 25 May 2012

Battery needs TLC.

Cable Cleaning

The battery cable connections should be cleaned once a year.

The number "my car won't start" problem -- with new cars or old -- is the battery cable connections.

Remove the negative battery cable first so that any accidental touch of the wrench will not cause a spark
Remove the postive battery cable
Wipe the battery down with a damp cloth. In a glass, mix a bit of Baking Soda with water. This is a base solution which will nuetralize any acid film on the battery. Carefully wipe the top of the battery clean. Dry with a paper towel.
Dip the battery cable terminals ends in the glass to nuetralize acid deposits
Use a battery brush to make the battery posts shiny
Use the battery brush on the inside of the cable ends
Coat the bare metal with battery-spray (alternatively, you can use a thin coating of grease or clean oil). This helps protect against corrosion.
Replace positive cable and tighten to specification (not too tight!)
Replace positive cable and tighten to specification
Test for proper car operation, including starting the engine
Reset the radio presets