Trunk mount battery enclosure

[Jack]

What is the recommendation for a trunk mount battery. I have a regular old battery in the 72 and the Optima in the turbo. Do you need a battery box? Why? What brand/source do you like?

[ray_]

See the Optima thread below. Here's the link to the TEP brace: http://www.racetep.com/rbrace.html

Cheers,

Ray

[Guest bruno74tii]

and generally make things tidier looking. I don't have one, but if I ever get one I'll do so at a marine store.

[condorw]

If you are relocating to the trunk, I would suggest looking at the 49dl or 49 series batteries with the vent kit. Even the optimas should have proper ventilation (some 02s are already vented in the trunk by rust), not generally for enclosed air tight spaces. The 49s are rated at 1000 cca and are often used in the trunk of later 3 series. They are large but size is less of an issue in the trunk.

[Mike Self]

has a cover...or go on-line to a Brit car supplier and look for a plastic battery tray that's made for an MGB, Triumph TR or a Spridget...

mike

[JayKehoe]

I use the TEP brace for my Optima Red in the Sahara and will use one in the Inka as soon asit is installed. The Inka came with an Optima Red Top ,mounted in a marine battery box, with lid openings cut a bit wider for the Pos. side. The box is anchored by a metal loop, screwed to the trunk floor, and the box is wrapped around and through the metal loop with an adjustible /quick release strap. It will pass all autocross and track day tech and is a safe set up. It has served the car well for over 20 years. BTW, I just bought an Optima BLUE Top for my M325ic, to replace a very old Red top, and it has incredible numbers and amperage depth. I normally would get a Yellow Top, but the Blue Top is an incredible battery. Just fine for auto "cranking" use. Superior for any length of auto lay-up, or big aux draw. Cost at Costco= $160.00.( $30 more than Red Top)

[BLUNT]

JACK, if you can wait a week or 2 the new rear strut braces will be done and they are sweet. in carbon steel or alloy. i should have pics soon

[c.d.iesel]

SECURE SO IT DOES NOT MOVE

during cornering, braking, tipping over!,

colision's. Vent through floor if needed.

no box required.

[danjrusdug]

I am interested as well. I want to put the battery of the tii in the trunk so I can get one of those TEP tii air pipe & K&N filter.

Doug

'73 tii Atlantik

'72 Ceylon

[slash02]

If you are relocating to the trunk, I would suggest looking at the 49dl or 49 series batteries with the vent kit. Even the optimas should have proper ventilation (some 02s are already vented in the trunk by rust), not generally for enclosed air tight spaces. The 49s are rated at 1000 cca and are often used in the trunk of later 3 series. They are large but size is less of an issue in the trunk.

I have a question.. what is the actual meaning of cold cranking amps? I see those terms thrown around, but I usually go by amp hour.. if they tell you.

Also, I agree, you should have a vent even for optimas, they have vents on them.. I don't think they "vent" as much as wet cells do though.

[Guest Anonymous]

cold cranking amps measured at 0 deg F, gives a value to compare among batteries - usually the higher the better especially with lots of accesories like heavy duty sound or video. for trunk use, i think you could use just about any size of battery.

[BLUNT]

im trying to cut a deal and buy 10 sets (front and rear) FROM JOHN MASON. I DONT KNOW IF THE PRICe is going to be favorable enough to make it worth our while. at any rate i dont have pricing yet. it may be that john sells them himself and we can all order thru him. i should have a piece in a week or 2 to show you guys. john makes nice stuff and i imagine the price will reflect that.

[danjrusdug]

(nt)

[Jack]

Once again, I have to remember to "engage brain" prior to hitting the send button. Really poorly written question. Thanks for the replies. I have the TEP brace in both cars. Nice product. Very solid and secure battery mounting. I will be in Boston tomorrow. I'll measure the Optima and the rear brace and see what the marine stores have. Mmmm. lunch at the No Name.

[napa02]

my 02 cents worth, I have a front bar from Mason and it is sweeeeet! fit and finish is superb.