Corrosion Inspection

TM 9-6140-200-14

CAUTION

When removing and carrying batteries, be careful not to hit the battery

against the sides of the vehicle or other structures. The battery

casing can be cracked if struck by or against other objects.

b. Corrosion Inspection. Aside from a careful, general inspection of the condition

of the battery, battery cables, battery box, hold down supports, and fasteners, a

through inspection of the battery cables, terminal and fasteners should be made

to detect the presence of corrosion.

(1) Effects of corrosion. As acid eats away terminals, terminal posts and

exposed cable, corrosion builds up on these surfaces. This corrosion

creates a resistance to current flow and restricts proper flow of current to

the starter and the equipment electrical circuit. On equipment having

voltage regulators, resistance caused by corrosion prevents the battery from

receiving a sufficient charging current. After repeated battery use, this

results in an undercharged, sulfated battery.

(2) Battery System Inspection. Inspect battery system for corrosion as follows:

(a) Inspect cable ends for corrosion and general condition. Check for worm

insulation, breaks and buckling. Replace all unserviceable cables.

Clean as required.

(b) Inspect battery terminal posts for corrosion and overall general

condition. Clean as Required. After cleaning, check that cleaned cable

terminals fit properly on the cleaned battery posts.

adjacent equipment, etc. for corrosion and general serviceable

condition. Clean, repair and/or replace as required.

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