Anyone using an Optima battery?

#1

Is anyone using an Optima battery in their E30?

My current battery (generic) is on its way out and I’m looking to replace it with something reliable. Any luck with an Optima? If so, what model?

#2

For some reason I thought there would be hundreds of different variations, but there’s only a handful of redtops.

This one matches up closely to OEM specs and has the reverse positive pole.

Part Number: 35 (8020-164)
RedTop®; Battery; UNBOXED; Group 35; Cold Crank Amps 720; Crank Amps 910; Reserve Capacity 90; Ampere Hour 44; Top Terminal; L-9 5/16 in.; W-6 3/4 in.; H-7 5/8 in.;

#3

Over rated, I have a red top and with the kill switch switched off or the terminals disconnected and the car sits for a month of less the battery is flat. It takes a charge fine and last well if used… Second one as well!!

#4

My current battery is still okay, but the Optima provides two benefits over a normal battery. It is completely sealed and will not emit hydrogen gas. This is typically not a problem in a race car since the windows are always open. Second, it will not spill the fluid as easily if you find yourself upside down. Therefore it is more of a safety measure than a performance increase. For real safety, you should look at dry cell batteries.

Good luck,

#5

The 35R may work better since our positive runs forward and it should keep it further away from the body and the inner fender well. Need to check the specs. There is a guy who runs Spec 944 and sells then for great deal. If you are going to get one I can try to find his email. Got my last one form him.

I like them since they don’t leak fluid under the battery tray and corrode the car. I have used a few and have had good luck in stored and daily driven cars. I will keep my normal battery in the SE30 until its dead and then replace it with something that does not slosh around.

#6

I have his information. It’s something like $95 shipped for any red/yellow top.

#7

Yep. Best deal out there.

#8

Optima Red Top here. No complaints.

I did have to change the ground strap to the chassis. The stock one on my '86 Eta was too short.

#9

I know this is an old thread, but can someone provide me with the contact information for the battery supplier mentioned? Also, does anyone else have any comments on the fit? Any mods other than lengthening the ground cable? Thanks.

#10

The deal is no longer available.

Mine was a drop in and didn’t need to do anything.

#11

Rob in VA wrote:

[quote]The deal is no longer available.

Mine was a drop in and didn’t need to do anything.[/quote]

Thanks. Too bad it isn’t still available. Did you install the the 35 or 35r?

#12

swooper wrote:

[quote]Rob in VA wrote:

[quote]The deal is no longer available.

Mine was a drop in and didn’t need to do anything.[/quote]

Thanks. Too bad it isn’t still available. Did you install the the 35 or 35r?[/quote]

35

#13

Thanks.