My Optima Red Top 34/78 is something I've had since late December 2004 on a trip to San Antonio, Texas when I was still living in Mexico. It's been with me now for over 5 years, but within the past 2 I've had sporadic electrical issues and I've known for some time I'd need to get a new battery. I've even gotten the infamous 1:00 a.m. lately and have found no issue with the alternator (as expected).

I have a few battery ideas on the table right now, but I'm looking at things that are going to be under $150, perhaps under $100 and lightweight.

A few that I'm looking at,

http://www.amazon.com/Kinetik-HC600-...7995262&sr=1-1
http://www.amazon.com/Kinetik-HC800-...7996133&sr=1-1
http://www.amazon.com/Shuriken-SK-BT...7996146&sr=1-3
http://www.amazon.com/Shuriken-SK-BT...7996366&sr=8-4

I considered another Optima, but am looking to minimize weight this time around and the Braille batteries that I like are now a bit expensive for my current budget, even though I do like both batteries very much.

My audio system is stock and I don't plan to upgrade it at all.

Willing to hear suggestions and observations.

 

I have been happy with the Autozone Duralast batteries....Mine is 4 years and I am thinking of staying with it for the next one

 

I've got one of those in my gf's Expedition. Been running very well (has similar specs to the Red Top I have now).

 

As OEM batteries failed (really lived their life) I have switched to Optima Reds.

My RX optima is still strong, but coincidentally I had to replace a red top at 40 months. Red top has 36 months free replacement, so I got pro-rated money back.

For the last few weeks, if the car was left undriven, it could not turn the starter. It would take the charge and then had no problem. This particular red top was bought at Costco and had a unique model number. All other red tops are at 6+ years.

The optima cost more than the rest, but I like them as they are sealed ... no fumes etc. They are more compact and light than other batteries.


Salim

 

Very interesting. I have tried using a battery tender and/or letting the vehicle recharge the battery on a long trip, but it seems if I go say 3-4 days without using the vehicle, then an issue will arise. I've seen these issues erupt ever since I got back from Mexico and the Florida humidity and heat are never kind to batteries.

The lightweight batteries have always been something I was looking forward to when I wanted to retire the Optima. I still need to do some more research on types and prices.

 

I am running XS Power right now and having great performance. I am running the the S975 with the billet hold.

http://www.4xspower.com

 

I am not discounting the advances in technology, but for applications where consumers are not willing to fork out extra $$, the lead acid battery has been the premier choice. To get more current more plates are added in parallel ad thus for the same voltage, the battery becomes larger and heavier. The additional current then provides more CCA. One can potentially drain the battery more and can wing it by charging it later [The laws of conservation of energy still apply]. What I mean is you can get starting current for say 40 times (just a number) and then charge the battery.

Is there any comparative study on this.

Also any unique requirements for charging? [Ex: Optima gel based technology is reputed to have a need for extended re-charge time]

Salim

 

I stick with Wal-Mart EverStart batteries. In my experience, they cost much less ($50 - $75) but live as long as the $120+ ones

 

Reprinted from Consumer Reports...

 

Both of my yellow and red optima batteries failed right after 36months. For the price, they should have lasted longer. Costco battery is my best choice. They are as good as others and the price is very competitive, and warranty is as best.

 

Where did you buy the optimas from? Also did you charge them overnight about once a month?

Salim

 

Bought one from a friend it died, then bought another one from Kragen now is taken over by OReilly; and their customer service policy is really poor compare to Kragen before. I didn't know that we have to charge these batteries overnight every so often. I do use the audio system while engine is off for an hour or two.