Woody,

I was never a fan of grease on any battery terminals for the same reason as your issue. However I do highly recommend a light coating of Truck Lite Corrosion Preventitive Compound that appears like grease.

I would try to reuse what you have before going with lead, as the lead terminals seem to get dirty faster. Also be sure to purchase a good quality battery brush and clean the post and terminal, even if they look clean. Apply compound before and after assembly.

James