HLS wrote:
>
> "Steve" > wrote in message news:L_2dnTtSz4U9-
>>
>> My experience is that terminal corrosion is 100% a function of how
>> tightly the battery case is sealed. Neither top nor side posts will
>> corrode with a sealed battery like an Optima. Yes, I HAVE removed
>> Optima top-post clamps after 5-6 years and found shiny metal under the
>> clamp. Both types will also corrode (and BADLY) with any battery that
>> has a poor vapor seal around the terminal itself. I've seen plenty of
>> side-post batteries with the threaded bolt eaten away to nothing.
>
>
> True enough, but few of us opt for Optima.

My experience is that its a break-even on cost. They last longer, but
that initial buy is some serious sticker shock.
>
> Side post and top post can both corrode severely. It is really not
> much of a
> task to take the darn things off, check their condition, and clean and
> grease them
> if need be..

Nope, but most people never open their cars' hoods anymore.

I've mentioned that I just bought a Jeep from a co-worker, and in going
through it I find it appalling how many little things are so nasty and
gnarly that would *never* get that way in one of my cars. He took care
of it- I doubt it ever missed am oil change- but he did NOTHING himself
so none of it was done with any care at all. Just the necessary service,
nevermind wiping up a drop of spilled fluid here, cleaning a battery
terminal there, wiping off some oxidation there, picking some leaves
out of a cranny over there. It all adds up over time.

The other lesson I learned was just how many danged fluids there are to
change in a 4x4. OK, so its just a transfer case and front axle more
than any other vehicle, but it seems like a lot more when you do ALL the
fluids within a week!