Agreed!
The battery is essentially being short-circuited through the meter. As the only thing limiting the current is the resistance of the wiring, connections, and the fuse. Useless for determining the battery's rating and a really bad thing to do to the meter!
Everclear is a high % grain alcohol sold in 151 and 190 Proof, and is a fantastic cleaning agent! It may not be in every liquor store in your local area, but it should easily be found in larger liquor stores.