The soda paste won't do much harm to a side-terminal battery, though.

Back when engine crankcases were vented (breather caps) into the engine
compartment/atmosphere, batteries in cars with high mileage would generally
get covered with an accumulation of crud, so perodic cleaning of the tops of
the cases was generally required since the accumulation could present a
conductive path for discharging.

Many folks apply grease or those treated felt washers to the top-post type
batteries, but I just prefer to keep them clean.. an occasional brushing
with a terminal cleaner can prevent unexpected problems.

You're right about taking personal protection precautions any time battery
maintenance/service is performed.
I think anyone who's done their own car work/service has been surprised at
finding holes in their freshly laundered clothes, which weren't there
before.

I always like to get the baking soda before starting, just in case, and an
ample supply of fresh water should be a standard practice.

--
Cheers,
WB
..............


"Winston" wrote in message
...
Wild_Bill wrote:
A lot of mysticism/voodoo exists wrt lead/acid battery charging and
handling.

Yes.

Aside from manufacturing defects or accidental damage, negligence and
abuse are the factors that kill batteries.

Some abuse comes in the form of 'preventive maintenance'.

Occasionally I hear a recommendation to put a slurry of
baking soda and water on top of my car battery to
neutralize the acid that builds up.

That was never particularly a good idea and now it is
a very bad idea because of the way modern batteries are
made. Years ago, batteries actually had a raised rim around
each cap opening that tended to prevent junk from falling
into the cells:
http://acarbattery.com/wp-content/up...teryWater2.jpg

Modern batteries don't have that feature and will funnel
crap into the cells. That soda slurry on the top of the
battery will get flushed into into it and ruin the battery
sooner or later, I guarantee.
http://hostedmedia.reimanpub.com/TFH..._CARBAT_03.JPG

A gentle drizzling of tap water from the garden hose on
top of the Closed battery while scrubbing with a disposable
brush will neutralize the acid quickly and safely.

As always, wear "work clothes" and protective eyewear
when working on car batteries.

--Winston