When is it time to replace battery
 

Car in question has a 1983 3.0 SC motor with 140,000 miles.

I purchased a 72 month Optima battery 6 years ago for the car. The engine turns over and starts on the first try.

I've installed a volt meter which shows smooth charging. 14 volts when engine running and 13 volts with the A/C on

So the question is, when is a recommended time to replace the battery?

I've seen some scary posts with batteries leaking and exploding and would want to avoid that scenario

Thanks

leaking/exploding batteries are generally a sign of a failing voltage regulator that lets voltage spikes cook the battery (and not of a weak/dying battery). If you're monitoring voltage while driving, etc. (not just occasionally spot checking) you should be able to catch these spikes and avoid frying your battery.

I'm of the "if it ain't broke don't fix it" school regarding older batteries -- and carry jumper cables so that when it does fail/lose charge capacity I can get home to address.

A weakened battery will generally first show itself when exposed to cold weather -- if your car struggles to start when it's COLD (hard to do in So Cal), good sign the battery needs to be replaced. Also, a few complete discharges can take their toll of battery longevity -- if you have a few under your belt, could be getting close. Finally, many auto parts stores have a device available for a free battery check - this could give you some peace of mind

You lucked out and got a good optima. Last one I bought didn't make a year. I'd use it as long as it starts the car.

Unless you are planning a cross country trip, then carry a jumper pack.....

It largely depends on how many times the battery was DEEPLY discharged. "Normal" (re-)charging rates require low current flows into the battery, no HEAT.

HEAT = warped plates.

If you maintain a battery well, it can last a long time. The original battery in my '86 930 went 13 years, and it would have lasted longer had a shop not killed it while the car was in for some touch-up work.

JR

I'm on an 11 year old Deka. Car fires right up every time. I keep a trickle charger on it most of the time as I only drive about 700 miles per year.

I'm on a yellow top optima going on 11 years with no issues,
I was thinking the same thing a few days ago !!