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Old Jun 6, 2023 | 08:13 PM
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Default Tar top

I have a “tar top” battery whose “tar” is a mess. I’m thinking of replacing the tar. Anyone have an idea what the composition of the “tar” actually is? Can I scrape this stuff off and reheat it in a double boiler (or something) then pour it back on?
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Old Jun 6, 2023 | 08:36 PM
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Are you serious? I wouldn't attempt that, possibly at the cost of your health or safety. Could be toxic, flammable etc. Just buy a new battery. Yeh, I know it won't look the same but! Dennis
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Old Jun 6, 2023 | 09:56 PM
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Yeah, I’m serious. I’m not exactly a novice in working with chemicals, I do have a degree in chemistry. I’ve heated far more dangerous, more explosive, and more toxic things.

You can’t really buy a real tar top anymore, and this one works just fine. As long as you empty the battery first, rinse it with distilled water, and scrape the tar off with a plastic tool, I don’t see a risk.
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Old Jun 6, 2023 | 09:59 PM
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Go for it, let us know how it turns out. Dennis
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Old Jun 6, 2023 | 10:31 PM
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I’m no expert, but I would try a heat gun first and see if you can get it to flow.
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Old Jun 8, 2023 | 08:23 AM
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If you’re a chemical engineer, then why don’t you do your own chemical analysis of the tar?
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