Battery decision

BMWDavid · 06-30-2010, 05:01 AM

I had earlier posted for info and comments regarding the fitment of an Optima battery with an adapter plate. Thanks to all who responded.

However I've been doing some more research on batteries and have decided on going with a DEKA battery in a group size 48.

The DEKA is a AGM type battery much like an Optima so it poses no acid leakage issues. But it will look more "traditional" and with the group 48 size being a bit shorter it will be easier to get my hand on the hold down clamp/bolt assembly.

Its my understanding that the battery tray has bolt holes to accommodate the group 49 and 48 sizes. Also believe the stock ground strap/cable will reach the group 48 terminal.

Any comments or input?

David

WANNA930 · 06-30-2010, 07:10 AM

I think 90% of people who buy the Optima batteries do so because they like the look of them. There are plenty of sealed battery alternatives at a big savings that work as good as if not better.

Where is the hard proof that they are better than another dry cell battery. For my 71 which takes that odd ball sized small battery I went to Pep Boys and bought a sealed Bosch for $99. It has sit for up to 3 weeks without losing .003 volts and spins engine faster than a full sized battery.

Don't get sucked into all the hype. If you do some research you will notice most batteries are just relabeled anyway.

Good luck!!

BMWDavid · 06-30-2010, 07:44 AM

I agree that most batteries are reliable. I'm interested in the AGM battery because they don't have any acid leakage or seepage issues at the terminals and are gas free (no vent tube needed)...unless you overcharge and then a vent valve will release gas.

David

moneymanager · 06-30-2010, 07:52 AM

Why Optimas are as popular as they are has always been a mystery to me. Fine product, but there are several similarly priced sealed units, as noted above, which work as well, weigh less, fit better and look more OEM. The Deka is a good choice. My car (with no big stereo or other major current user) works fine on a Braille 3121m made by the same folks who make the Deka. Do you really need the capacity of a group 48 battery?

frosty2 · frosty2's Garage

Hi Wanna930 do you know the model and rating of the bosch battery
you purchased I'm in need of a new one as well.

Thanks
Mike

Por_sha911 · Por_sha911's Garage

My understanding is that there is a difference between a sealed battery and a gel battery like Optima. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.
I am really big on retaining stock appearance whenever possible. That said, no one sees the battery and to me, the smaller size and weight of the Optima was great. It is easier to get in or out and a new ground cable cost a whopping $15 for the best one they had IIRC. I've had mine for over 3 years with it sometimes sitting unused for almost a month. I'm happy with mine.

JHanson · 06-30-2010, 09:07 AM

I started using Optima batteries in 1993, before anyone had heard of them, when I was guiding trips in Mexico in my Land Cruiser and got tired of having Sears Die-Hards die within two years. My first Optima lasted seven.

However, recently I've been hearing some disturbing, if anecdotal, reports about Optima's quality control. This from people who spend a lot of time in remote areas and depend on batteries. I've since switched to Deka and Odyssey batteries. Ironically, the Sears Platinum battery is now the same as the Odyssey, and should be excellent.

moneymanager · 09:26 AM

Re "sealed" batteries, look for AGM in the description...you can install the Braille, Deka and Odyssey AGMs upside down if you want...just like the Optima. They are as "sealed" as any auto battery can be.

JFairman · 06-30-2010, 09:28 AM

I remember the old Porsche race cars used aircraft batteries. They come in many sizes and shapes and airplanes have high G forces and have to be able to fly upside down... at any time.
Need a good gel cel aircraft battery for that kind of fun and they fit in cars too.

McLovin · 06-30-2010, 09:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OJEditor

However, recently I've been hearing some disturbing, if anecdotal, reports about Optima's quality control. This from people who spend a lot of time in remote areas and depend on batteries. .

+1. There have been quite a few recently purchased Optimas in the Ferrari world that have been dying quick deaths. Some have posted that there have been some changes at Optima. Some respected shops that used to use them say they don't any more. I don't recall the details (didn't pay that much attention, I only use Interstate batteries. I have never had one last less than 10+ years, so until that happens I'll stick with them).

Wavey · 06-30-2010, 09:46 AM

I just replaced the DieHard that came with my '88; it was at least 10 years old, had been totally discharged and recharged at least 3 times, and was still kicking. I was heading out on a long trip so I replaced it as a preventative maintenance issue. Got an Interstate, best they make, same size. And yes, the threaded mounts in the tub accommodate Group 48 and 49, and the ground strap will reach either.

JeremyD · JeremyD's Garage

I have three on my boats (Optimas)- one went bad after 9 months - I have another going bad - after 13 months - luckily there warranty gives full replacement - but bad news when your bilge pumps don't come on...

I'm just in the process of relocating my battery to the smuggler's box - I went with an Odessy 6800 - same cranking amps as the group 27 interstate I replaced (which I put on the bigger boat as a back up) Now that battery is a friggin tank!

BMWDavid · 06-30-2010, 09:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wavey

I just replaced the DieHard that came with my '88; it was at least 10 years old, had been totally discharged and recharged at least 3 times, and was still kicking. I was heading out on a long trip so I replaced it as a preventative maintenance issue. Got an Interstate, best they make, same size. And yes, the threaded mounts in the tub accommodate Group 48 and 49, and the ground strap will reach either.

Thanks for the verification that the ground strap will reach on a Group 48 battery and that there are threaded mounts for both sizes. Believe I'll go with the AGM DEKA battery in a group 48 size.

Appreciate all of the posting to my questions.

David

WANNA930 · 06-30-2010, 08:39 PM

FROSTY....I would have to get the number it is something u1r? It fit standing straight up but I felt uncomfortable with it being so close to the top of the box. I laid it on it's side and made a new strap. I never had a battery strap and think the orig might work? If you were local to LI NY I could make one for you that looks OEM.

Battery is from Pep Boys and is the only gray sealed battery they sell it is for a Miata. $99. It cranks super fast and holds a charge without use really well. No red top but sealed and easy warranty.

WANNA930 · 06-30-2010, 08:40 PM

LOL as number is in pic!!!

nineball · 06-30-2010, 10:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OJEditor

However, recently I've been hearing some disturbing, if anecdotal, reports about Optima's quality control. This from people who spend a lot of time in remote areas and depend on batteries. I've since switched to Deka and Odyssey batteries. Ironically, the Sears Platinum battery is now the same as the Odyssey, and should be excellent.

i have heard the same thing - optimas are dying faster than ever. had a friend buy a brand new one and 3 months later it was dead.

the sears diehard platinum series are agm batteries and come with a 4 year warranty. for the money they are hard to beat and come in a variety of sizes. i happened upon a great deal so i just switched out my battery for a new kinetik hc800. small, powerful and agm. got the matching mount/sleeve for it as well that i mounted to a modified cutting board and i am very happy with the results.

Product Specifications

Product Information
Brand:	Kinetik

Sizing and Specifications
Item Weight:	26 Pounds
Height:	12.7 centimeters
Length:	19.3 centimeters
Width:	15.2 centimeters

description (edited to take out the fluff):

Kinetik HC800 - 800 Watt 12 Volt Power Cell Battery is more powerful than 200 1 farad caps! Compact power that fits anywhere. Use as a reinforcement for amplifiers or as your starting battery where weight is a concern, such as racing applications. 950 amps of power. Engineered for high performance car audio systems, but graceful for normal driving conditions. Due to low ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance) and high energy density, Kinetik HC Power Cells are the most powerful, reliable and compact car audio power cells on the market today. Kinetik Power Cell Batteries deliver higher peak amps faster and provide up to twice the life of conventional batteries. They are suspended with fiberglass mat separators, which act as absorbent sponges to deliver maintenance-free, hi-performance with a no leak design, higher cranking amps, lower self discharge and greater vibration resistance.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Por_sha911

My understanding is that there is a difference between a sealed battery and a gel battery like Optima. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.
I am really big on retaining stock appearance whenever possible. That said, no one sees the battery and to me, the smaller size and weight of the Optima was great. It is easier to get in or out and a new ground cable cost a whopping $15 for the best one they had IIRC. I've had mine for over 3 years with it sometimes sitting unused for almost a month. I'm happy with mine.

normal batteries (lead acid) need to be vented and mounted in the traditional manner. agm batteries can be mounted however you like and have no venting needed. bye bye battery tray corrosion!

dad911 · 07-01-2010, 05:18 AM

I'll never buy another Optima either. Bought one in the mid 90's that lasted 8+ years. I have 2 bad ones now that lasted about a year.

frosty2 · frosty2's Garage

Thanks Wanna930 I can source that battery and nice job on the
strap it looks factory.

Thanks
Mike

JeremyD · JeremyD's Garage

Dude - you need a cover on that positive terminal - seriously... You have a gas tank right there - enclosed space - shoot - even dropping a wrench can have bad consequences.

grizzfan · grizzfan's Garage

What a great thread!!

I mentioned in a PM to one of our number that there was an ad on the PCA website, (or was it in Panorama?), for a "deal" on Optima batteries: send $85 to this member who was supporting some sort of 944 rally and you'd get a factory certificate for one battery, any size, red or yellow top. I was about to give it a shot, but this thread nudges me to look a little further.

Anybody take advantage of this offer? Legit?

Tom