Optima Redtop Battery in my 1925 Ford Model T

[TinLizMitch]

So I've read raving reviews of the Optima Red Top battery... My 1925 Ford Model T needed a new battery so I thought I'd try one out 6 volt, 800 CCA and 1000 CA - and apparently they're vibration resistant and will tolerate sitting idle for extended periods without losing charge.... we shall see...

Here's the video...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a29gm9aZi7o

...Don't forget to check out the website if you haven't already
http://www.fordmodelt.net/

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- Mitch.

 

[Steve Jelf]

Looks like a good thing for a car with a starter. For my 1915 roadster I just ordered a small 6V 12Ah sealed battery to replace the full sized automotive battery that's taking up way too much trunk space. It will go inside the frame rail under the car, with a diode to charge off the magneto. All it has to do is buzz the coils for starting, not turn a starter or run the car, so it will be plenty.

 

[tmodelman]

Mitch

Fine video, that was neat!

Have Optima's in my T's for the last few years. Live in hot climate and constantly added fluid to the wet cell standard 6v batteries, and keeping them on low current trickle charge too.. but they only last 2-3 years in my garage, the T's are stored and run from time to time, but sit too.

The added cost is offset by never having to add fluid, or to clamp on a trickle charger, plus the boost in starting power and longer life.

Only difference in install is for me to make a 'tip tray' of wood to keep that odd shape battery in the rectangular battery carrier of the T. Once had a std. battery slip and the positive terminal hit the metal of that carrier. So like to have the battery tight in the carrier, same reason when trailing the T, rough bounce could upset that battery.

Tip tray is wood base, notched to fit between the battery tray uprights, and two wood sides to fit the small width of the Optima, with an oak stringer over the battery, held by the Ford battery case clamps. Snug and safe.