MODS

• Cut and tuck bumpers

• Delete shock towers

Members of the STANG Mag family are more passionate about fun and inclusion than they are their cars and that says a lot! I can’t wait to see what’s to come in 2022!

• Big bore Windsor 427, 463 rwhp 486 torque

• Tremec TKO 600

PHOTO CRED: ROB WALKO

• Moser Engineering rear end

• 3.55 gears

CHUCK DEKETT

• Heidt front end rack and pinion

• Shelby side scoops and hood

• Ring Brothers door handles

• Foose rims

• Body paint and final assembly by Lynn Miller Pleasant Grove, Utah

• Engine built by Karl Krohn, API (Absolute Performance Inc., Sandy, Utah)

• Interior by Ron Kiiha, RK Upholstery, Logan, Utah

• Stereo by California Audio Slc, Utah

“JUST THE TIP

DAMN THAT’S CRUSTY! YOU EVER CLEAN THAT THING?

While it may seem small and insignificant, corrosion on your battery terminals can cause serious headaches with your ride. We’ve all seen it and have probably had cars where we experienced it, and it can be a common cause of reduced battery life. So what is the battery corrosion you see on the terminals, what causes it, and what’s the best way to fix it?

What is it – The battery is filled with a mixture of sulfuric acid and water. When the battery is charging, it heats up, and some of that water evaporates. And in a process called electrolysis, the water breaks down into hydrogen and oxygen that will dissipate through the battery. When the hydrogen gas makes contact with air, moisture, and salt, it causes the corrosive buildup that you see on your terminals.

What causes it – There are multiple factors that can cause this corrosion in a battery. Age for one. A battery typically has a lifespan of three to five years. They become more susceptible to corrosion as they reach their expiration date. Another cause is overheating. Batteries that overcharge or overheat due to higher temperatures will evaporate more water, hence increasing the chance of corrosion. This is why corrosion is higher risk in the summer. And of course leaking fluid. If the battery case is cracked, no matter how small, it can leak battery acid and cause corrosion.

How to fix it – If it’s a recurring problem with your battery, it’s probably time for a replacement. Even if it starts great every morning and runs with no issues, corrosion that keeps coming back within a few months of cleaning means it time for a change. But to clean up the battery you have, it’s a simple as removing the battery cables, using a wire brush to clean the terminals and battery cable ends. Then use either a commercial terminal cleaner, or take the easy cheap route and mix baking soda with warm water(as this will neutralize any acidic residue in the corrosion) and wipe them down with a rag. Remember that the corrosion is caustic and can cause skin and eye damage, so play it safe and wear gloved and eye protection.

Pro-Tip - Before disconnecting the battery, hook up a ‘memory saver’ to the car so your car’s computer, and all other settings, do not get erased. More on that in next month’s issue of Just The Tip!