toad wrote:
>
> Brethren
> Recently we had a brief discussion on Optima Batteries.
>
> Has anyone got any comments (good or bad) on Optima Batteries?
>
> I am considering using Optima batteries in my '33 Morgan Super Sport.
> It is my intention to use the Optima in a 6 volt configuration for
> normal running only.
> As an after market option?? I am installing a 12 volt starter and will
> use a small utility battery to power the starter. Granted the 12 volt
> battery will require frequent overnight charging however overnight
> charging is superior to engine cranking.
>
> Thanks for any and all comments
Toad,
Have you considered changing the whole trike system to 12 Volts? There
have been two or three articles in the Morgan Three Wheeler Club
Bulletin on conversion schemes. The main piece is to fit in a small 12V
alternator, then everything becomes easy. Twelve volt batteries come in
all sizes and types, 12V headlight bulbs give much better illumination
at about half the current, anybody's car battery can give you a boost
for starting. I don't know about ignition coils (you may have the
double-ended type) but in general 12V coils are easy to find.
I converted my 2-speeder a few years ago and have been very happy with
the results. Ignition is by magneto and cranking is by hand so those
didn't change, but headlights and tail lights are now bright enough to
make us feel safe and I added flashing turn signals. And with an
alternator you can generate enough current to run the car at night and
charge the battery! The original 6V generator made enough current to
run ONE headlight. I was told that you charge the battery during
daylight running and run off the battery at night. That's all very
well if you're only running 2 miles to the pub, you might get back home.
Regards,
Tony Souza
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