To prevent battery damage, be sure that all battery caps are tightly installed.

The correct cleaning technique is to spray the top and sides of the batteries with a solution of baking soda and water.  This solution is best applied with a garden-type sprayer equipped with a non-metallic spray wand.  The solution should consist of 1/4 cup (60 ml) of baking soda mixed with 1 1/2 gallons (6 liters) of clear water.  In addition to the batteries special attention should be paid to metallic components adjacent to the batteries, these should also be sprayed with the baking soda solution.Allow the solution to set for at least three minutes; use a soft bristle brush or cloth to wipe the tops of the batteries in order to remove any residue that could cause the self-discharge of the battery.  Rinse the entire area with low pressure clear water.  All of the items required for complete battery cleaning and watering are contained in the Battery Maintenance Kit (P/N 25587-G01).

Cleaning should take place once a month or more often under extreme conditions.  After batteries are clean and dry, the terminals should be coated with a commercially available protectant.
Battery Terminal Protector (P/N 606312)

Preparing Acid Neutralizing Solution