Which Optima Battery?

BruceBruce · #1 12-01-2005, 03:27 AM

Ok, i wanna get a optima battery because im ganna get some fog lights and a stereo systems running two amps. The question is which type should i get? Im pretty sure its not a blue top cause its for my truck and the blue top is for marine systems. Should i get a red or yellow? Also are there different types of reds and yellows? i should get the one with the most cold cranking amps right?

Thanks
Bruce

hupptoy · #2 12-01-2005, 07:52 AM

Unless you are going to run your stereo for long periods with the engine off, then you should be fine with the red top.

The yellow is for deep cycle applications and would be good if you had a winch or even more amps in your system.

The blue top is similar to the yellow except that it has a couple of additional wing nut posts for hooking up a trolling motor (or an easy way to hook up amps...).

The main problem is our (Toyota trucks) cables (neg/pos) are reversed from the norm and your cables may or may not be long enough to use a yellow or blue top since they are not offered in reverse terminal (34R) like the red top, so installation may be a little more difficult.

So the easiest install will be the Red top 34R (which most places will have to special order) with the bottom spacer attached to bring the battery up to the height of our battery hold down bracket. If you don't use the 34R, then you could use the 34/78 on it's side and make a spacer to allow the battery to be held tightly by your existing bracket. The 34/78 also has the advantage of having an extra set of (GM) side terminals for ease of hookup of extra stuff (like amps or a winch). These would face up if you mount the battery on it's side.

Another option is to use the *other* brand of spiral cell battery (Exide Orbital 78). This is what I put in my 4Runner about a year ago as it was only $90 for the Sam's Club version. The Orbital has its terminals mounted at the middle of the short sides, so you don't need the reverse terminals as the battery can be turned around. This may not work with all Toys as battery cable length can vary slightly. But, you can mount this battery on it's side (I did) and installation is a little easier and it put the extra GM terminals on top for easier access for accessories.

hupptoy

BruceBruce · #3 12-01-2005, 04:41 PM

Thanks Hupptoy. It looks like ill be getting a 34r then. I think that is what we have at costco. Im not sure. I know we havea Optima red top though. If not the normal red top seems easy enough to make it fit right from your description.

Again i appreciate it.

hupptoy · #4 12-01-2005, 05:38 PM

Since Costco carries Optima, they may be able to order the 34R for you.

hupptoy

BruceBruce · #5 12-02-2005, 12:15 AM

Hah, i work for them. If they dont do it normally myabe i can convince them to for me lol.

brayboy · #6 12-02-2005, 11:28 PM

Great post Hupptoy! Bray

Reason's like this post and many others from you are why I haven't given stars too early. You get 5 from me Bro! Bray

hupptoy · #7 12-02-2005, 11:44 PM

Much appreciated Bray!

hupptoy

BruceBruce · #8 12-03-2005, 12:09 AM

Stars? what do stars do?

#9 12-05-2005, 11:43 AM

I agree, very good post! Very useful information. Thanks.