Optima Redtop

[tbone]

So I bought an Optima Redtop battery on 12/4/14. I went to pop the gas lid (300A) and it made a weak click. Thinking I had an issue with the release mechanism, I asked my wife to come out and push the release button while I jostled the lid. No go. Then the relay starts clicking continuously....So I grab the key and put the ignition in start position and realize all the dummy lights are very dim.
Long story short my 3 year old Optima Redtop battery is already shot even though I keep it on a battery tender. Anybody have a similar issue with these batteries? Pretty disappointed since I paid quite a bit and the prices have gone up a lot.

[martyo]

These batteries aren’t as good as they used to be.

[justbob]

These batteries aren’t as good as they used to be.

I’ve heard the same. Mine is doing good but only two years old.


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[Ambitious1]

These batteries aren’t as good as they used to be.

Yes, Optima used to be a good quality battery. However it seems that's not the case anymore. Especially since Optima stopped being made in the U.S.A. in 2008, the lifespan of the battery has decreased substantially.

http://www.thedieselpageforums.com/t...ad.php?t=35724

https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/...in-usa.270258/

https://www.mercurymarauder.net/foru...d.php?t=103120

If you're looking for a new battery, I would go with Motorcraft or DieHard.

[tbone]

I went with the Optima because after the supercharger install, it is the most powerful battery that fits in the battery tray and space for it. I still had to hammer the hood a bit to clear the positive terminal. I was having issues with the old, brand new standard battery not providing powerful enough cranks plus the dimensions and superior CCA of the Optima was the best I could find in my research.

I found a new identical Optima on ebay for $200 shipped. I paid $150 3 years ago. Most places want around $230.

[fastblackmerc]

Copied from this post: https://www.mercurymarauder.net/foru...hlight=battery

My Optima Red Top just died after 4 years and 1 month.... not bad for a 36 month warranty. That battery has been brought back from the dead more times than I can remember.

Looking for another battery I thought I'd go with a Sears DieHard. Found this:

The P-2 Platinum Automotive Battery from DieHard features 135 minutes of reserve capacity and 930 cold cranking amps. Its corrosion-resistant high quality tin-coated brass terminals provide reliable starting power in all weather conditions. Its rugged, military-grade construction features robust casing for increased compression and offers superior vibration resistance, making it ideal for off-road applications.

* Longer off-season storage time - show cars & classic cars
* Ideal for luxury vehicles with multiple electronic accessories
* Plates made of 99.99% pure virgin lead
* High purity grade acid held safely in place by glass mats; non-spillable design
* Absorbed Glass Mat construction provides mounting flexibility & guarantees longer service life
* 4-Year Free Replacement; 100-Month Prorated Limited Warranty

Dimensions:
Height: 7-2/5 in.
Length: 11-4/5 in.
Width (in.): 7-1/5 in.
Product Overview:
Item Weight (lbs.): 60.0 lbs.
Battery Type:
Group Size: 65
Temperate Zone: North or South
Transportation Type: Passenger car and light commercial
Power Configuration:
Voltage: 12.0
Power Ratings:
Amp Hours at 20 Hour Rate: 75
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA at 0 deg.F): 930
Reserve Capacity (RC): 135 min.
Design & Construction:
Container Material: Polycarbonate/polyester
Warranties & Coverage:
Months in Use Free Replacement: 48
Months in Use Pro Rated Replacement: 100

930 CCA!

4 year free replacement!

After the first 4 years... an additional 52 months prorated replacement!

Of course all that comes at a cost......

http://www.sears.com/diehard-platinu...p-02851065000P

[RubberCtyRauder]

Die hard Platinum group 65 size is "presently unavailable"

[fastblackmerc]

Die hard Platinum group 65 size is "presently unavailable"

Might just be online.

[tbone]

The length 11 4/5" won't fit in the battery tray. Nice specs though.

[crownvic05]

interstate batteries for a CV PI is an excellent strong battery. Mine is still going strong into 3 years now with a 3k watts rms stereo and everything else.

[GoldPanther]

I read online that the red optima is never worth buying. Supposedly if you're buying an optima you should get the yellow one.

I've always bought duralast gold and so far I've had good luck with them, they last about 4 years.

[RubberCtyRauder]

I like my Interstate Mega-tron Plus..MTP-65, 850 cca, 1000ca and no it's not a ugly green top..it's a black top

[crownvic05]

I like my Interstate Mega-tron Plus..MTP-65, 850 cca, 1000ca and no it's not a ugly green top..it's a black top

This is the one in my car. Love this battery.

[Bradley G]

The length 11 4/5" won't fit in the battery tray. Nice specs though.

Sounds like you have no choices if you want to stay small and mighty.
You could trunk mount a full size !

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[tbone]

I wish the Optima was black. Oh well.