Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) ? which optima battery

[15w40]

I researched replacement batteries that will fit the tray and here are the facts:



Stock Battery:

Group 27, 750 CCA, 150-minute reserve capacity, 53 pounds.



Optima 34 or 34/78:

Red top, dark gray case “Starter battery”

800 CCA, 110-minute reserve capacity, 37 pounds.

Change from the stock battery: +50 CCA, -40 RC, -16 pounds



Optima 75/35:

Red top, dark gray case “Starter battery”

720 CCA, 90-minute reserve capacity, 33 pounds.

Change from the stock battery: -30 CCA, -60 RC, -20 pounds





Optima D34 or D34/78:

Yellow top, light gray case “Deep cycle battery”

750 CCA, 120-minute reserve capacity, 43 pounds.

Change from the stock battery: 0 CCA, -30 RC, -10 pounds



Optima D31:

Yellow top, light gray case “Deep cycle battery”

900 CCA, 155-minute reserve capacity, 60 pounds.

Change from the stock battery: +150 CCA, +5 RC, +7 pounds



Optima D31M:

Blue top, light gray case “Deep cycle battery”

900 CCA, 155-minute reserve capacity, 60 pounds.

Change from the stock battery: +150 CCA, +5 RC, +7 pounds





Now here is my opinion:



With the exception of the last two, D31 batteries, the smaller Optima batteries do not have enough capacity to replace the stock battery under all conditions.



Cold Cranking Amps only matter when starting in cold weather or using a high current accessory like a winch.



Reserve Capacity only matters when running accessories with the engine off (radio, lights, trailer) or to allow operation with a failed charging system.



If DC could save money by using a smaller battery they would.