Battery Terminal

Clean, service, or replace battery terminals and cable ends on the 1970 AMC Rebel Machine to ensure reliable electrical connections.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Battery terminal replacement cable ends (if corroded beyond cleaning) × 2 — Top-post style for 1970 AMC
• Battery terminal anti-corrosion washers × 2 — Felt washers for top-post batteries

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Turn off all electrical accessories including headlights and radio
4. Open hood and secure with prop rod
5. Locate battery in engine compartment (driver side on Rebel Machine)
6. Inspect battery for cracks, leaks, or damage before proceeding

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery cable
   Using appropriate wrench (typically 7/16" or 1/2"), loosen the negative (-) battery terminal clamp bolt. The negative terminal is usually marked with a minus sign or black color. Loosen just enough to remove the cable. Use a battery terminal puller if the cable is stuck to the post - never pry with a screwdriver as this can damage the battery case or post.
2. 2

   Disconnect positive battery cable
   Loosen the positive (+) battery terminal clamp bolt using the same wrench. The positive terminal is marked with a plus sign or red color. Remove the cable from the battery post, being careful not to let the cable or wrench contact any metal ground points on the vehicle.
3. 3

   Inspect terminals and cables
   Examine both battery posts and cable ends for heavy corrosion, cracks, fraying, or damage. White, blue, or green crusty buildup indicates corrosion. Check cable insulation for cracks or damage. If cable ends are severely corroded or damaged, they should be replaced rather than cleaned.
4. 4

   Clean battery posts
   Using a wire brush or the external portion of a battery terminal cleaning tool, scrub the battery posts thoroughly until bright metal is visible. Clean both positive and negative posts. Remove all corrosion and oxidation. If significant corrosion is present, apply baking soda solution to neutralize acid, let sit briefly, then scrub and wipe clean with damp rag.
5. 5

   Clean cable terminal clamps
   Use the internal portion of the battery terminal cleaning brush or a wire brush to clean the inside of both cable clamps until bright metal is visible. Ensure the clamping surfaces are completely clean of corrosion and oxidation. If clamps have split or separated, they should be replaced.
6. 6

   Apply corrosion protection
   If using felt anti-corrosion washers, place them over the battery posts before reconnecting cables. Alternatively, apply a thin coat of dielectric grease or anti-corrosion spray to the cleaned battery posts. Do not over-apply as this can interfere with electrical contact.
7. 7

   Reconnect positive battery cable
   Install the positive (+) cable onto the positive battery post first. Ensure the clamp is fully seated on the post. Hand-tighten the clamp bolt, then snug with wrench until secure. Do not overtighten as this can crack the battery post or damage the clamp. The connection should be tight enough that the cable cannot be twisted or removed by hand.
8. 8

   Reconnect negative battery cable
   Install the negative (-) cable onto the negative battery post. Ensure proper seating and tighten the clamp bolt securely with wrench. Again, avoid overtightening. A small spark may occur when final contact is made - this is normal.
9. 9

   Apply external protection and clean battery case
   After connections are secure, apply anti-corrosion spray or dielectric grease to the outside of the terminals and exposed post areas. Wipe down the battery case and surrounding area with a damp rag to remove any corrosion residue. Ensure battery hold-down clamp is secure.

Reassembly

1. Verify both terminal connections are tight and secure
2. Ensure no tools or rags are left in engine compartment
3. Check that battery hold-down bracket is properly secured

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify dash lights illuminate
• Start engine to confirm proper electrical connection and cranking power
• Test headlights, horn, and other electrical accessories for normal operation
• Inspect terminals after engine running for signs of arcing, smoke, or excessive heat
• Reset clock and radio presets as needed

More procedures for this vehicle