Useful Tools for Refurbishing a Dead Car Battery
Refurbishing a car battery involves the possibility of contact with battery acid. It is extremely corrosive and can burn skin and destroy clothing. Since batteries release gasses that can be explosive during the charging process, always work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors. A good pair of neoprene rubber gloves ensures no battery acid contacts the hands. It is also a good idea to wear a heavy shop apron to protect clothing. Safety glasses help protect the eyes from spray and invisible gases.
The only other necessary items are an inexpensive battery charger,, distilled water, magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt), a funnel, and a turkey baster to remove unwanted electrolyte from the battery. It is important not to substitute anything for Epsom salt or distilled water. Tap water contains contaminants and table salt is not magnesium sulfate.
Safety Precautions
Every year, over 2300 people in the United States sustain injuries from handling car batteries. About half of the injuries are the result of acid burns to the eyes and face. The rest are usually due to lifting or dropping them, since they weigh approximately 40 pounds.
Some precautions are common sense and others may not be so obvious. For example, never store battery acid in direct sunlight or any other hot location. Keep in mind that some battery chargers are only compatible with specific batteries. Use only a charger that works with a 12V automobile battery. Since metal can react with battery acid, use only plastic funnels, basters, and containers. Remove all metal tools and jewelry from the immediate work area. Never overcharge a lead acid battery. Obviously, it is important to avoid open flames, but even small sparks can lead to an explosion.
Battery Refurbishing Process
Experienced professionals know that refurbishing an automobile battery is a great way to extend its life. Even if the result is only another couple of years of use, the little time it takes makes economic sense most of the time. Some mechanics purchase used batteries , refurbish them, and are able to sell them at a considerably higher price.
Removal Of Used Acid Solution
Begin by bringing 1/2 gallon distilled water nearly to the point of boiling. Add 1/2 lb. Epsom salt and stir until completely dissolved. Set the mixture aside. For those who prefer to avoid the mixing process, battery acid is readily available for purchase. Since it is important that the inside of the battery does not become contaminated, wash the outside of the battery with clean water and baking soda. Baking soda neutralizes battery acid, rendering it harmless. Scrub all corrosion from the terminals and cable connections. Keep all work surfaces clean at all times.
Acid Solution Replacement
Next, remove the battery cell covers by prying them off with a screwdriver, taking care not to allow anything to fall down into the cells. With a damp paper towel, carefully clean the area immediately around the open holes. With the funnel,, add the mixture to each cell, making sure that the visible lead plates inside are completely covered. Replace the cell covers and rock the battery back and forth about 10 times to enable the mixture to coat all surfaces completely. Now, attach the battery charger to the terminals and allow the battery to charge for 24 hours. Depending on the condition of the battery, repeating this process two or three times can substantially improve the battery's performance by removing additional sulfur buildup.
Repeated Discharging Option
Some mechanics advise in favor of the added step of intentionally discharging the battery between cycles. Simply reconnect it to the terminals on a car and turn on the headlights. When the lights begin to dim, disconnect the battery and recharge as described above.
Done
Source: http://www.ebay.com/gds/How-to-Refurbish-a-Dead-Car-Battery-/10000000177770796/g.html
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