Off-Season Maintenance: Part 11 – Batteries

From AGM type batteries to lightweight lithium polymer batteries, there are more performance batteries on the market than ever before. Although they do not require much maintenance, it is important to strictly follow charging and storage instructions. Lithium batteries are extremely sensitive to improper procedures and can become a fire hazard under certain circumstances.

When inspecting your battery, look for swelling, corrosion and other types of wear. It is also important to keep the batteries charged. Once a battery is completely drained, it is unlikely that it will function properly again. Modern programmable and computerized battery chargers can be a major help by regulating a batteries capacity and keeping it fully charged while preventing overcharging as well.

The DRA Off-Season Maintenance Series takes a detailed look at what items to inspect and address on your race car when the drag racing season comes to a close. By properly maintaining your vehicle during the off-season, you will be better prepared and able to campaign a highly competitive vehicle when racing resumes. In addition, you will prevent general fatigue and wear and tear from turning into catastrophic failures that could turn into costly repairs for you vehicle.

Off-Season Maintenance Series:

• Part 1 – Overview & Chassis Inspection
• Part 2 – Front Suspension, Brakes & Tires
• Part 3 – Steering
• Part 4 – Fuel System
• Part 5 – Rear Housing & Brakes
• Part 6 – Rear Suspension & Rod Ends
• Part 7 – Shocks
• Part 8 – Drive Shaft
  
• Part 9 – Cables & Linkage
  
• Part 10 – Safety Equipment

• Part 11 – Batteries

• Part 12 – Body Repair