Maintenance

Most people look at a battery and figure next to nothing can be done to “maintain” a battery. This couldn't be further from the truth. The reality is that there are many little things that can dramatically alter the lifespan and efficiency of your battery.

Unfortunately, it is hard to see the ill effects of poor battery maintenance until the system simply fails. Those who do little more in the way of maintenance than washer fluid, are typically the same who fail to see the positive impacts of proper battery maintenance.

While much of what would be called good battery maintenance revolves around maintaining a healthy charge, there are several other important areas of significance.

Having healthy batteries begins with being properly installed. Every battery box should be clean and have a rubber under pad. A battery can very well sit on an aluminum or steel plate but having a sheet of rubber or even an old, flat mudflap will help dampen vibrations inherent to heavy vehicles.

It’s surprising just how much debris can build up in a battery box over the years. Consider the conditions in which the batteries live.

At the same time that we are watching for vibration dampening, batteries need to be properly secured. Partly because, again, vibrations and partly because batteries can be lost and can touch conductive components and cause a short circuit. While using hold down brackets is a must, there is a limit.

An owner's manual should tell you just what that torque should be. If a torque rating can't be found, the guiding principle is to tighten enough that the batteries cannot move, but not too tight as to squeeze the battery casing, thus damaging it. Make sure to keep the batteries secure at all times.

Check all power and ground cables. Note well, all power and ground cables, not just the positive and negative posts of the battery. A loose or corroded terminal on a ground, starter or alternator can be detrimental to batteries.

Verdigris is when a terminal, usually but not always the positive, creates a sort of green powder. Many think that if the connection is tight, verdigris can't hinder the connection. And they are wrong. It is generally recommended to take apart all these electrical connections but especially on the battery and alternator, twice a year and thoroughly inspect clean and repair as needed.

While many excellent products are available to clean battery terminals, water and baking soda worked with a brush will do the job just fine. A silicone grease will work wonders, when properly applied to a clean surface, to protect these terminals from corrosion, but it is not a perfect nor a permanent solution. Proper maintenance and inspections are still necessary.

Battery inspections can't be left out of the equation. There isn't a whole lot to look out for but any one of the signs below can be a warning of problems.

Cracks and other deformities

Any cracks or bulge in a case are obvious signs of damage that signal a defective battery. If left, a short and or spill is very likely, both with dire effects.

Leakage

Leakage can be a sign of a few things, such as overheating, a loose or damaged cap or body, or having been shaken or leaned to its side. In some cases, the battery could be checked for electrolytes and water level. Often, however, the battery should be replaced and the charging and starting system inspected.

Electrolyte level

This can be checked both visually by opening the cap or caps to the battery and seeing if the plates are covered by approximately 1/8th of an inch of liquid. The quality can be verified with a gravity tester or refractometer.

Load test and voltage check

These two go hand in hand. Voltage should be checked as per the chart at the top of this page and a load test should be performed as is described in the chapter on testing and in the literature provided with your tester. Always read and use the information that came with the tool you intend to use. Always use appropriate personal protection in a safe work environment.

Drive safe,

Kevin Gauthier