Battery choices

[Frodo]

Hey, folks, I had some questions regarding batteries. (I did do a search, but found only snippets of info here and there, with no detailed discussion of the pros/cons of different brands.) The one that’s dying on me (it came with the car--- a 2001 S---when bought in ’06) is an Interstate “MegaTron Plus”. I considered switching to one of the lighter weight batteries, like Braille (see http://www.tirerack.com/accessories/brand.jsp?brand=Braille), but I started to wonder what the trade-offs would be in dropping a few pounds. It looks like one is warranty: most “standard” batteries are warranted for several years (pro rated after the first 2-3), but Braille’s is only fully warranted for a year, pro rated up to 2 years. Generally speaking, how long do they actually last? Has anyone gone with a Deka (see http://www.remybattery.com/Products/AGM-European-Performance-Battery__9AGM48.aspx) ? What did you think of it? I live in NE Ohio where it gets pretty cold (but not super cold), and I do drive some in the winter. I’m thinkin’ the super-light batteries aren’t going to be a good choice for me. They have one that’s 11.5 lbs that seems like might work well (see http://www.tirerack.com/accessories/detail.jsp?ID=28&cat=Batteries).

If I decide not to worry about the weight, is there much of an advantage to brands like Optima or Odyssey over an AutoZone Duralast or another Interstate? (For example, do they appreciably handle weeks/months of disuse better?)

I guess I’d just like to get input as to what people have used as replacement batteries (specific model where possible) and what were the pros/cons (price, reliability/longevity, ease of installation, weight, etc.)

(BTW, Brucelee---your preference for Costco batteries @ $60 is duly noted. )

[ekam]

http://mike.focke.googlepages.com/batteries

Optima all the way.

[Jaxonalden]

I replaced mine this summer with a Duralast Gold from AutoZone. Reason? Price, about a hundred bucks and warranty. If ever something happens I have the peace of mind that help is an AutoZone away. BTW, the replacement battery is huge!

[Burg Boxster]

In OH I think you'll end up DOA more often than running w/ a Braile especially during the colder months. The OEM Moll IIRC is only 360 CCA so you have lots of options but in colder climates I think the Braille will leave you stranded...

Use Mike Focke's link above as he nicely compiled a lot of options

[blinkwatt]

I wouldn't touch another OEM battery. They weigh a ton and cost twice as much $ as one from Sam's Club.

If you want to go performance check out Deka batteries,they are the ones that make the Braille batteries,but then you have to buy/build a custom mount.

[edevlin]

I started with a 11 lb Braille battery, which worked fine for starting the car year-round. But I was also using it to power two outboard amps for the cars stereo and it did not quite have the current when the subwoofer was really booming. I called up the folks at Braille and told them about it and they said no problem, send the battery back and we will send you their 15 lb battery for just the difference in price of the batteries. I was very impressed by their customer service.

The 15 lb Braille works fine both starting the car and driving the outboard amps. The coldest starts I have had have been in the low 20's and it pops right over. I would think if you got their 17 lb battery, which they rate for winter use, you would do fine and save a few lbs. If you are interested in saving weight for your car, it is one of the very cheapest ways to go.

Ed

[vath2001]

Before I bought my 98 Boxster, the previous owner installed an AutoZone battery. Its big with lots of cranking AMPs. Your in Ohio, It gets cold..... don't skimp on the size.

And I have AutoZone batteries in all my cars, and they start when its zero or below (this is from someone who owns an ice scrapper and a snow blower).

[jmatta]

I replaced my original battery with the big a$$ OEM Moll three years ago...next time I'll do something different. I have an Optima Red Top in my 911, which has been flawless for the last five years.