Battery Corrosion but Not Near Terminals?

jim evans wrote:
> I've never seen this before. My battery has built up a lot of
> corrosion, but under the hold-down. Not on the terminals.
>
> http://tinyurl.com/v5xr9
>
> What would cause a battery to corrode in this odd location, but not at
> the terminals?
>
> -- jim

Very common on older battteries that have not been kept clean. It's
the product of gasses expelled from the batttery during charging that
settle on nearby surfaces, condense and react with metallic surfaces.
Notice the dampness on the batttery top? Probably the same stuff
unless you cleaned the top recently.

This is an example of why it is important to do more than just oil
changes and keep up with all maintenance on your car. With proper
maintenance it is possible to make a batttery last for over 6 years.

My suggestion is to remove the battery and thoroughly clean everywhere
in the area. Chances are the same corrosion has settled at the bottom
of the battery bay. If this is so clean it throughly, wire brush and
paint with something like rustoleum. Also clean that clamp.