Optima installation

[bjc]

Anyone replace their factory battery with an optima yet?

I was thinking of going with a yellow top or possibly even two wired in series if there's room. I know the yellow top is generally smaller than most factory batteries, but wasn't sure if there are any fitment issues I should be aware of such as the need for a custom bracket, etc.

[RIC-H0]

Originally Posted by bjc

Anyone replace their factory battery with an optima yet?

I was thinking of going with a yellow top or possibly even two wired in series if there's room. I know the yellow top is generally smaller than most factory batteries, but wasn't sure if there are any fitment issues I should be aware of such as the need for a custom bracket, etc.

Any of the optimas will fit in there nicely.
Had to cut a hole in the felt battery cover for the realignment of the terminals, but that was about it!

[f5fstop]

Originally Posted by RIC-H0

Any of the optimas will fit in there nicely.
Had to cut a hole in the felt battery cover for the realignment of the terminals, but that was about it!

Felt battery cover? Mine is plastic, as all I have seen.
I do have one question, the bottom of the battery case has ridges, did you have to cut. Measurements for all optimas I have seen are a bit larger than the stock battery.

[RIC-H0]

Originally Posted by f5fstop

Felt battery cover? Mine is plastic, as all I have seen.
I do have one question, the bottom of the battery case has ridges, did you have to cut. Measurements for all optimas I have seen are a bit larger than the stock battery.

Sorry...I didn't notice you drive an H3. I was speaking of an H2. Thus the Felt battery comment.
The H2 has a different size battery, as a matter of fact the battery tray is almost too large for an optima.
Sorry to lead you astray.
But I would still highly recommend the Optima!

[f5fstop]

Now I understand...

The H3 does have a tray with a plastic cover, with a small tube for cooling that feeds air into the box, by the front grille.
From my measurements yesterday, it does appear the plastic fins at the bottom of the tray would need to be cut (Dremel time). These fins are used for reinforcement, and only a small amount on each side should do.
I would suggest if anyone is adding an Optima to an H3 to remove the battery and do some measurements against the Optima battery size specs.
As for the Optima battery...nothing is better. I carry an optima in the back when off-roading, charge it just before the trip. You can actually turn the Optima upside down and touch battery terminals to start a vehicle; so long as they line up ok.