pb1592

I'm sure this has been asked before, there are even YouTube videos on the subject, but I'd like some specific clarification on the subject if possible.

1) When reviving a dead 7.2v nicd/nimh pack, I understand I need to manually connect it to another power source to give it a little charge so that a smart charger will detect it and charge it normally. When doing this I can simply connect another good battery to the dead one, (+ to -) for about a minute right?

2) I have several nicd/nimh packs that seem to only charge about 25% or so. They worked fine when last used before sitting in storage for a few years. I've heard of "shocking" the pack to dissolve crystal buildup in the cells that supposedly inhibit current flow. Without disassembling the individual cells, how exactly would I "shock/zap" a faulty pack back to life (what voltage, amperage, time)? Cycling these batteries at a low (< .5amp) trickle doesn't seem to help. With a 2-to-4 amp quick charge they begin to get warm as expected when the smart charger shuts off, but when I use them it seems like they only have about 25% of an expected full charge. Are these packs toasted?

Can the entire pack be shocked/zapped for this to be effective or would individual cells need to be done individually?