Another Optima Battery Thread ...

KatoKato · 07:07 AM

Ok ... with my latest battery fiasco I'm looking into those Optima batteries that everyone seems to like.

At present I have an interstate MTP-93, 1000 CA, 850 CCA, 52lbs. It is big --- 14.38" X 6.88" X 6.88"

There are two 'Red Tops' that I have narrowed down to

1) Group 25 (35 reversed) - 910 CA, 720 CCA, 31 lbs, 9.31" X 6.81" X 7.63"

This is the one I would like because of it's dimensions and mass.

My question is this: Are the CA's high enough for my stock 3.2L? (I drive the car from May - October and the absolute coldest temperatures the battery would be subjected to would be about 41F or 5C)

2) Model SC34A - 1000 CA, 800 CCA, 41lbs.

CON - this one only saves on length (11" X 7" X 7.75") but is bulkier otherwise

PRO - it does have the same power specs. as the one I have now.

Which one would be most suitable?

Thanks for the help,
Kato

Richard C2S · 08-26-2005, 07:31 AM

Kato,

All I can tell you is that I have the Group 25 in my 993 and it has been perfectly fine. Sometimes, the car will sit for two or three weeks between drives and the battery has been great. I can't believe that the demands of the 3.2 Carrera are any greater, but I'm not an engineer. It's nice to have a lighter, more compact battery that won't leak or emit fumes.

Rot 911 · 08-26-2005, 07:33 AM

I have the Group 25 in my '86 and drive it year round with no problems.

LanceS4803 · LanceS4803's Garage

I am thrilled with the Grp 25!!
The only problem encountered was the mounting. I ended up getting scrap aluminum plate and cutting the base, and wire brushed the surface. I then bolted the battery to the base.
Nice, compact, and the added bonus of knowing I made the adapter plate.
This car only gets driven once a week, or every other week and I have had no issues with the battery.

DW SD · 08-26-2005, 12:11 PM

I used the smallest battery from costco. It is probably out of a small Honda and quite lightweight. I have no cold weather to speak of, but it has performed admirably in my 3.2. The battery was about $40. I made a stainless box for it to drop into the smuggler's box. I think it offers about 500CCA, maybe 50 less.

Doug

KatoKato · 08-26-2005, 05:12 PM

Thanks for the input.

Group 25 it is.

Now I have to find a 'discount' venue to buy one. I called a local authorized dealer and they can get me a group 35 for $250 CDN (app. $210 USD).

I should probably call the local Costco or SAM's club to see if they carry them. Any Canuck out there know where I could buy them other than at an authorized dealer?

Thanks,
Kato

KatoKato · 08-26-2005, 05:13 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DW SD
I used the smallest battery from costco

Which type is it?

Kato

KatoKato · 08-27-2005, 04:32 AM

Just did a search. I didn't realize that Pelican sold these batteries. I'll have to see whether it's worth shipping one all of the way here or just to pick one up locally.

jcjblo · 08-27-2005, 07:02 AM

Wallmart sells them in Canada-C$145.00 plus taxes

DW SD · 08-27-2005, 11:01 AM

The battery is item 12848 from Costco. Not sure which car it is from. It was a cheap alternative. Part of the 1971's weight reduction plan down to 2180 lbs. Can't beat it for $40.

DW SD · 08-27-2005, 11:02 AM

Here's a photo of it:

LanceS4803 · LanceS4803's Garage

Sears carried the Optima brand at a good price. I actually bought mine from the military base PX. It was the same price at Sears, but saved the tax.

jacko241 · 08-28-2005, 07:32 AM

If you are looking for the smallest, lightest battery that will work, take a look at the Odyssey PC-680 with automotive terminals. It has 220 CCA and weighs only 15 lbs! I use one in my 911 race car, and it works great!