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Can I use sandpaper
to clean corrosion from my battery’s terminals? T.W., via
e-mail
While using sandpaper
to remove corrosion is okay, using a battery post cleaning tool is more
thorough. As shown in the second illustration above, the tool fits right
over the post, and a few quick turns back and forth gets the job done.
(Keep the cap on the other end to make it easier to turn the tool). Make
sure you also use the terminal brush end to clean up both battery clamps
(right).
Once you’ve got
everything shined up nicely, coat the connections with petroleum jelly
or light mineral grease. Aerosol anticorrosion sprays can also be used.
I do a fair amount
of repairs onboard and have noticed many of my drill bits have a buildup
of residue on them. How can I clean them without dulling the bits?
H.L., via e-mail
Coat the drill bits
with household oven cleaner. Simply lay the bits on several layers of
newspaper, and spray generously with the cleaner. Do this in a well-ventilated
area—preferably outside—and make sure to use gloves and protective
eyewear. If you want to avoid the fumes, place the bits in a transparent,
heavy-duty, Ziploc-type bag, then place the nozzle of the oven cleaner
can in the bag, and spray enough to cover the bits. Whichever way you
do it, let them sit for about a half hour before wiping them clean with
a rag.
What kind of maintenance
is required for an air-horn air compressor? B.R., via e-mail
Begin by checking
that the system reaches its normal psi operating level by carefully watching
the pressure gauge. If you don’t know what the normal operating level
is, or if you don’t have the owner’s manual anymore, contact
the manufacturer.
Make sure the system
properly “cycles”—that is, it should turn on when air is
used and shut off when the tank is fully pressurized. If it runs continuously,
the compressor may have a leak.
Check all the fittings
and belts on a weekly basis to ensure they’re in good condition,
and inspect the hoses and rigid tubing for cracks and leaks every month.
If the compressor is fitted with a filter, make sure it is clean. And
if the tank is more than five years old, it’s a good idea to have
it pressure tested.
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