I need advice,
What is the best way to clean an extremely corroded battery compartment and is Windex ok for the plastic parts or will it take off what little finish that might be left?

Hi Old School Scott, and welcome to the forum.

Mild soap (dishwashing) and warm water are very effective, and safe. Be careful to avoid getting water into controls, and behind tuner windows, etc. This will remove most accumulated grime, smoke, dirt etc. Be careful to avoid rubbing too hard areas that are silk-screened (control lettering, etc.) and don't use any petroleum based products (like WD-40, etc.) as these will instantly and permanently remove all lettering. If the finish is showing it's age, a rub down with almond oil is excellent for rejuvinating most plastics (Almond-Glo is an excellent product that provides amazing results).

Battery compartments: a mixture of baking soda/water can be used to wipe the compartment (neutralizes the battery acid, and helps to remove the stain from the plastic). For contacts, dremel tools, or sand paper, and disposable nail files all work well for removing stubborn corrosion. Finish with Q-tips dipped in isopropyl alcohol, rubbing until clean.

Hope this helps...perhaps you could post pics of your basement find when you're done?

By the way, avoid Windex on plastic parts, especially if it's the type that contains ammonia. It's harsh, and will dry out plastics. Use it only on chrome parts, and antennas.

but if you can take it apart, it will make cleaning a whole he-- of alot easier

GEEZUS what the heck is your avetar OldschoolScott????? LOLOLOL!!! I almost gaged on my soda when I saw that.... Too funny....... That guy looks like a 70's porn reject.....

thanx for the advice fellow enthusiests, pics coming soon.
this is a picture of George Clinton when he was skinny.

OSS.

Parliament Funkadelic.

I put them in the shower wash gently with Alberto VO5 and then air dry for 2 weeks.