2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission OEM Battery Replacement

[ctopp]

I'm still running original batteries in my 99 and want to replace them before they let me down. Does anyone know the manufacturer of these original batteries. If I can get another 7 years out of my next set, I'll be happy.

ctopp

 

[GMincher]

Sorry not sure of O. E. manufacturer, but I replaced mine last year at 7 yrs. also. Had nothing but good luck with Interstate, so Interstate is what replaced 'em! O. E. 's are still working in M37 powerwagon. I admit they're tough!!

 

[ctopp]

GMincher,

Did your OEM batteries die or did you replace them because of their age? The only indication of a problem I have noticed, is my check gauges light stays on for a few seconds after startup on cold mornings>

ctopp

 

[jgallentine]

GMincher,

Did your OEM batteries die or did you replace them because of their age? The only indication of a problem I have noticed, is my check gauges light stays on for a few seconds after startup on cold mornings>

ctopp

Mine is doing that with three year old Interstates. Interstate used to be a good battery but the last three I have purchased have been terrible, two decent years at best.



I hear they bought Optima, not sure if that's true or not. I hope not, or if it is I hope they haven't had time to screw those up too as I have a set sitting here waiting for time to install.



Jeff

 

[SBettencourt]

Check out this link for the batteries made by Johnson Controls.

Brands

 

[JOdell]

I hear they bought Optima, not sure if that's true or not.

Jeff

I was at Interstate yesterday picking up 2 new Batteries for my Dodge and they were selling Optimas right next to Interstates. The guy behind the counter told me that Optimas were not the best option for my truck. Something about they don't like to be drained and recharged. -Jason

 

[Thomas]

A look at the link posted by SBettencourt, as well as a look at the Optima site (http://www.optimabatteries.com/publish/optima/americas0/en/config/about_us.html) shows that Optima Batteries is owned by Johnson Controls.

 

[fglidden]

This is also a great site for battery info there seems to be only three battery manufacturers. Still doesent mean that all batteries are the same though.

http://www.uuhome.de/william.darden/ great site with lots of links more battery info than youl ever need.

 

[Jeff Knight]

I replaced my OEM batteries in my 95 with Deka batteries. They were 1000 CCA each. Didn't know my truck could turn over so fast. Jeff

 

[Bob4x4]

The OEs are Exide



Bob

 

[steved]

I replaced my OEM batteries in my 95 with Deka batteries. They were 1000 CCA each. Didn't know my truck could turn over so fast. Jeff

My dad just replaced the batteries in his 99 a couple weeks back with Deka... they are a really good battery. I have a deep cycle marine that is still going after three years!



Oh, and the reason they don't recommend certain optima batteries is the fact they are a deep cycle battery, not a starting battery... there is a difference, although most people don't have any trouble running one for the other in the optima brand.



And I believe the statement about the OEM batteries being Exide is correct... I believe the ones in my dad's truck have a really small "exide" molded in them.



steved

 

[mnengr]

Anyone know why Optima is listing the yellow tops as deep cycle/starting batteries?

 

[duaneparks]

I dunno about the yellow tops, but I have had nothing but good luck out of my red tops for 2 years now. The stockers died with only 3 years of use on them (Texas heat got them I guess), so I replaced them with a couple of O'Reilly's batteries (the brand name escapes me). 2 months later I replaced those with the red tops.



I don't deep cycle my batteries though, so if your application is different perhaps my info above is of less use to you.



YMMV.