Rust:battery tray, core support, fenderwell.

[CG]

Does the battery tray, core support under the battery tray, and fender well beneath that rust because of battery acid? Or does water just pool up in these areas? I'm going to be putting in a new support and fender wells, I'm undecided on whether I'm going to move the battery to an under the truck mount or leave it because thats not the problem.

[Alvin]

I'm certain it's because of the battery. My original paint '68 was near perfect on the driver's side and the passenger side is totally rusted away. The battery tray was rusted in half, the core support and the front edge of the inner fender both rusted completely through.

I'm not too concerned with the newer batteries causing the same issue though. I think it's worth the money to buy a decent powdercoated or stainless battery tray, and just keep an eye on it.

[68gmsee]

Look for some sort of rubber or plastic tray for the bottom of the battery. This will protect your battery tray and hopefully the support and fender. I bought a black battery box (the small size) for my truck. I used it with top on for a while but was told that the battery would overheat here in Texas so I took the top off.

I've also seen where the battery fumes will actually corrode the metal on top of the hood where the battery sits. Try to keep that clean and neutralized if you can.

[Frizzle Fry]

Get an optima

[bad6772]

Originally Posted by Frizzle Fry

Get an optima

[Lobo'74]

Originally Posted by 68gmsee

I've also seen where the battery fumes will actually corrode the metal on top of the hood where the battery sits. Try to keep that clean and neutralized if you can.

That explains the rust bubbles starting to show and the rough metal under/inside the passenger side hood leading edge on my '67. Battery area and right front quarter panel had the typical "farm truck" battery rust problem. Didn't put it together with the hood bubbles.