2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Optimas are in

[SHobbs]

Well the OEM batteries finally went south. Picked up a pair of Optimas. Put in the Red Top 34/78 OR 800 CCA. The factory hold downs actually worked without having to put a spacer in. The starter defintely spins now and I won't have to worry about the upcoming cooler weather and the grid heaters. The OEM's were having trouble starting the motor for a while and when the truck came close to not turning over this past Sunday I knew it was time. I was amazed at one thing, these batteries are a little smaller and weigh more than the OEM's, guess that's why they hold up better and last longer. They did set me back about $105 a piece though Don't mind paying for quality

 

[DBentley]

You will be glad to have the optimas every time you open the hood and dont see the nasty corosion and stuff those acid ones leave. Be real sure the hold down bolt isnt digging into the wire harness on the driver side. I had to cut an inch or so off the hold down bolt.

 

[duaneparks]

You will be glad to have the optimas every time you open the hood and dont see the nasty corosion and stuff those acid ones leave. Be real sure the hold down bolt isnt digging into the wire harness on the driver side. I had to cut an inch or so off the hold down bolt.

Thanks DBentley... I put new Optima's in my truck a couple months back and did NOT check this. I'll do it as soon as I get home!



Duane

 

[jrobinson2]

I think on most if not all 24v trucks the hold down bolts miss the wire harness, however on the 12v trucks one of the driver side hold down bolts can go through the main harness and cause all sorts of not good things

Jared

 

[SHobbs]

Thanks for the heads up, I'll check the harness today.

 

[Dartman]

I installed the Red Tops in my '99. Had read about the harness and checked mine out also. Doesn't hit any wire harness. Is close to the small one that runs under the pass side battery pan, but no chafing. My OEM's did pretty good though. Lasted four years, ten months in the heat of Vegas.

 

[bubba_PA]

I've read good threads about the Optimas but have never seen anything posted about using battery heating wraps on them. I've use them on my regular battery and notice a big difference when not plugged in. My truck has to sit outside all Wisconsin Winter. Not sure if needed/recommended with the Optimas?



Paul