Battery Choices....

[coupe69]

I know a lot of this is probably opinion based, but I thought it wouldn't hurt to ask. I am trying to find a battery for my '70 coupe. It has a 351 Windsor. It has an electric fuel pump, fan, and a pretty decently sized stereo system (subs and amp). The last step is finding a battery. I found a Les Schwab battery, 800 CCA w/ 1000 CA and 84 month warrenty for $121. I can also get an Optima red-top battery with the same CCA and CA for $151. A yellow top would be slightly more than that.
I have only had experience with DieHards, so I was wondering if someone could point me in the right direction with these batteries. Are Optima's really worth the extra money? and would you go with a red top or yellow top if it is an Optima?

 

[mtaqua]

I had a Deka Intimidator, several people on the bullet highly recommended it and I got is pretty cheap. Well I toasted it on the charger and it didn't last long at all. I needed a batter and couldn't wait, so I got a redtop. I've had it for over a year now, no issues. I know a lot of people complain about them, but mine has been good. I would highly recommend one of these with what ever you get http://batterytender.com/battery-tender-junior-12v-at-0-75a.html

Probably why I've had no problems. My battery is in the trunk, and I've got the pig tail hanging down below the trunk and I hook it up when ever I park the car in the garage.

 

[coupe69]

Thanks for that link, that will help out a lot. My old battery used to drain like crazy in the cold garage. Thanks for the advice, much appreciated.

 

[2+2GT]

It has an electric fuel pump, fan, and a pretty decently sized stereo system (subs and amp).

This does not matter. Starter and engine compression matter, but accessories are alternator-driven.

 

[coupe69]

Sounds good. I had just noticed that the Optima yellow top is used for deep cycle, so I thought that would play in with the stereo system. Thanks for the help!

 

[rbohm]

one thing you need to look at when selecting a battery, beyond the CCA, is the RC or reserve capacity. you want as close to 90 minutes as possible.

 

[iskwezm]

I have had better luck with Walmart batteries then Optima. I now use Stinger AGM batteries in everything.

 

[rbohm]

I have had better luck with Walmart batteries then Optima. I now use Stinger AGM batteries in everything.

yeah, the last two optima batteries i had were junk.

 

[coolblue65]

My last Die Hard battery lasted 13 years, being discharged and recharged countless times. I am in on my 3rd red top Optima, in as many years, (they have all been replaced completely free) from what I have learned, Optima's do not take well to standard chargers and it can actually damage them (which I believe is the cause of my first two going bad). Optima actually began selling there own charger to help with this problem. I just put on a quick disconnect under the hood and just disconnect the battery when the car is going to be sitting for more then a couple weeks. Since doing that I have not had any issues with the Optima.

So all that being said get a Die Hard.