Chris & Egil,
IMHO, the Optima looks way too modern for a TR, I've seen them in folks
cars, but I like your idea Chris, about hiding it inside an old tar top
case. The Optima is about an inch shorter and a little more than an inch
less wide than a group 24 battery. It is about the same depth.
I also think one of the big holdups has been price and availability.
However, over last weekend I was in a local auto parts store where thy
have them on display. I asked about the price and, when I was told $119,
immediately ran home, got my 13 yr old cheapo battery out of the TR and
went back to make a trade.
So check around locally before you pay via $175 mail order, plus
shipping & handling of a 38 lb. battery!
In my TR4 the battery is being relocated to a battery box behind the
passenger seat, anyway, so appearance isn't really an issue.
As to the military aircraft issue, I doubt my TR4 will fly, although I
have been tempted at times by N. Calif. traffic to install some armor
and a few weapons. Hey, my driver's seat sort of ejected with me in it
the last time I was in an accident, does that count? ;-)
Alan Myers
San Jose, Calif.
'62 TR4 CT17602L
>
> IMHO -- I just think the AGM technology of an Optima style battery offers a
> lot for the British Car driver. Like no leaking acid to rot your battery
> tray. No leaking hydrogen gas that goes boom. And better shelf life with a
> slower self-discharge rate. More efficient charging with old 22 amp Lucas
> generators... And they are a lot more durable than any immersion lead acid
> type. These batteries were developed for military aircraft.
>
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