Service Information: Cleaning

The following information details the recommended cleaning procedures for the battery and related components. In addition to the maintenance schedules found in this service manual, (Refer to LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES - DESCRIPTION) it is recommended that these procedures be performed any time the battery or related components must be removed for vehicle service.

Fig 1: Cleaning Battery Cable Terminal

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

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 2: Using Cleaning Solution to Clean Battery Components

   Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
2. Clean the battery tray and battery hold down hardware of all corrosion. Remove any corrosion using a wire brush and a sodium bicarbonate (baking 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 (3) 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 3: Cleaning Battery Post

   Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
5. Clean any corrosion from the battery terminal posts with a wire brush or a post and terminal cleaner (1) and a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water cleaning solution.