2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Which Optima Red-Top is the correct one?

[Mick2500]

I've searched a little but found different answers. One site shows the Optima 34/78DT as the correct replacement for a 2001 Ram with Cummins engine.

Another site claims the DT31 is the correct size for the same truck, so which one have you put in your truck?



Thanks,

Mick



PS My originals are starting to crank slowly after 3 years.

 

[RT66DOC]

This is what I put in mine: 34/78DT 800CCA Red Tops. "DT" means dual lug terminals - a very handy feature.

 

[David Wheeler]

I have the 34/78OR (800 CCA). Have been VERY pleased with them. However, keep in mind these batteries are not as tall as the OEMs. You will have to modify the height of the OUTSIDE mounting bolts as to not pierce the wiring harnesses underneath the battery trays. The INSIDE (engine side) bolts to not require the spacer (approximately 1. 5" tall). I used stiff tubular plastic tubing to make my spacer for each side. Has worked very well!



Check out this link for further discussion:

https://www.turbodieselregistry.com/forums/showthread.php?t=93352&highlight=Optima



David

 

[David Wheeler]

Photos for you

Here are a couple of photos I took for you. They show the battery installed and a closeup of the spacer and nut I installed. The nut is just acting as a washer. Just measure the height of your stock battery and the new Optima and make the spacers as tall as the difference. You'll be all set!

 

[David Wheeler]

Here are the photos... . sorry

 

[Mick2500]

Thanks Guys,

Guess I'll be making some spacers. : )



David,

That picture says it all. I was thinking of spacing the whole battery UP 1. 5" but your spacer looks better.



Mick

 

[RT66DOC]

Nice job David. I just used a stack of flat washers on mine. Like the looks of yours better.

 

[RKohn]

I went with a single DT31A. Now I've got space on the other side for the hadleys and tank.

 

[Eventer]

Alternate Optima Battery CCA

I went to the Remy Battery site to check pricing on the the 800 CCA battery mentioned above. That particular model was not shown, but the 34/78-1050 was shown for only $100.



I then checked Optima's site for the correct battery and for the 800 CCA, Optima recommends DT34/78.



Will the 34/78-1050 work in my 2001?

 

[Mick2500]

David,

I used a similar spacer on my driver's side battery today. Thanks for the tip!



I found DT 34/78 800 CCA Red Tops here http://tinyurl.com/42j3o for $89. 99

TNA-Sports has a website and they also have an Ebay store. GREAT guys to deal with. www.tna-sports.com The prices are better on Ebay than on their website.



Mick