Having left batteries in appliances too long with the result of having the batteries start to leak, several years ago we adopted a different approach. Now, at the time change, spring and fall, we switch out the batteries in all of the appliances in which the batteries reside full time. Some we do just once a year, others twice. Since instituting this idea, we have yet to experience leaky batteries. Our experience is that we spend less money on batteries than we do on replacing the appliance. Yes, most battery companies will repair, replace or pay for damaged items if due to a leaky battery, but most of our dry-cell batteries are used in items that we use daily, in addition to often being constantly on the move, so waiting for the company to follow through on their warranty is problematic for us. Also, we have three, fairly expensive battery operated clocks which, all have in the past, experienced corrosion in their mechanisms to which Weems and Plath blamed on battery leakage, even though we sent them the battery that showed no leakage. To their credit, they always emailed pictures which clearly showed the corrosion. This stumped us for awhile until I started thinking that it wasn't battery leaking or out-gassing that caused this, but instead moisture... kinda ironic in a clock sold for marine use!? Whether out-gassing or moisture, we coated all access points to the clock's mechanism with grease to attempt to keep either out, and since have had no further problems over the past 4 years. We used petroleum jelly on one clock, synthetic grease on another, and dielectric grease on a third, all with no negative results. We haven't patented this idea, yet, so those with an interest, go ahead and try it. *Rudy & Jill Sechez * *BRINEY BUG-a 34' Sail-Assisted Trawler * *Anchoring Consultants @ trawlertrainingabc.com* *850-832-7748 * *Eau Gallie FL*