Thread: Optima Red/Blue/Yellow Batteries

Has anyone fitted optimas to their RRC if so what is the biggest you can fit and was any trimming needed?

If anyone has pics it would be unreal, farely urgent, cheers

OK.
I run a Deka intimidator 9A31PH in my SL. Had it in there since 2009.
It's 925CCA marine starting rated.
Suitable for deep cycle as well.
31KG
LxWxH = 330x171x241mm

I bought another for the RRC as an aux battery, simply because I couldn't get a decent unit with more than 620CCA in the original battery space when I needed one...

It's an interesting comparison with the Optima yellow top.
Dimensionally, they are almost identical. The Optima is only rated at 75Ah, the deka is 100Ah. reserve on the optima is 155, 190 on the deka. The Optima is almost half the mass of the deka and it shows in the unit specification.

9A31PH

D31T

D34

While weight is a consideration, there is one thing I prefer to have in the same physical package, and that is more stored energy.
I have used a number of other AGM batteries before and found some of them to be worthless, especially where shock loading and vibration is a concern. In a marine environment where it is a constant issue, my last 2 batteries in the Merc's were odyssey and optima. I have to admit, the optima wasn't bad, but it didn't last 2 months beyond warranty. the Odyssey PC1500 was a PITA to fit, and I ended up putting it in the boat, where it failed from vibration & shock loading. It was replaced under warranty twice. Second time I was offered a Deka as the replacement, and I haven't looked back.

If you want a robust starting battery, the heavy duty Amaron battery is very good. Unfortunately for me, I was not able to obtain one when the battery in my RRC (NRMA) failed not long after I purchased the vehicle. I ended up with a Century Marine heavy duty, which was the only thing that was available in the area I was 'stranded' and would fit in the space without modification. I'm still looking for a better solution for such a physically small starting battery.