Hey guys,

I was in the mood for battery shopping, and as mine could use a recharge, I was thinking out with the old.. I was thinking of going with an Optima battery. Long life, reliability, expensive... I'm also in the midst of doing some modifications, such as: subwoofers and amplifier along with a LCD In Dash navigation, as well as converting to power windows, locks, and mirrors. An optima battery seemed like a good addition with the extra power that was going to be needed. I was wondering if any of you had any experience with these batteries. I know they have different.. "models".. i.e. red top, yellow top. So if anyone can lend some insight it would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

-Skip.

 

Use the search Luke! Seriously though, just search the word Optima and you'll be reading until Christmas...'13. There's almost a 50/50 split around here on them. It's the only battery I've ever had and love 'em.

 

I used two Yellow tops in my old Expedition... Damn good battery in my opinion.... About to but one in my truck...

 

Yellow top is a deep cycle battery. Would not install one unless there's a need for one; i.e. running your stereo or other accessories for extended periods with the truck off.

 

there are better batteries out there to be bought for less money.....

 

Hands down, Odyssey/Sears Platinum Series DieHard. Do research on AGM batteries.
http://www.odysseyfactory.com/

Whoa! Sears now sells Odyssey direct!!
Odyssey Batteries Direct from Sears

 

I have a yellow top as for more of insurance purposes. Funny story when I first met my Girlfriend we sat in the truck and had the stereo on while we talked. I always have music on the background and so I really didn't think about it. Anyway 3 or 4 hours later I killed the OEM battery. Go figure, 4 years old and then on for that long.. As stated before the Yellow-Top is a deep cycle so it's designed to take that kind of abuse. I don't do that all that often but I worry less knowing that I can. Food for thought anyway.

 

IMO. Kinetik batteries are the best but very pricey. Odyssey and Sears platinum are tied for second being that there made by Odyssey. Optimum would be last in my opinion. I went with the Sears Platinum, what an incredible battery with one of the highest CCA.

Try the search, there soo many threads on this.

 

I've run Optima red tops in my last two trucks without issue and have one in my kid's jeep (big stereo,lights, winch) Did a ton of research before I got my last one and the Kinetiks are highly rated but priced themselves out of my budget. Really wanted the Sears Platinum but no place around here sells them and the shipping was too high. I run Interstate deep cells in my boat and work truck but not sure they are the battery they were ten years ago.

 

Skip,
With the stereo system and other modifications you are making, you do need a dual purpose, deep-cycling battery. Our YellowTop series would be the right Optima choice. The reason is they will serve the daily OEM requirements for the general electrical needs of the vehicle, yet also designed to handle the added needs of the stereo and amperage draw it will create. One other suggestion here, you may want to look at the big 3 upgrade, which is making sure you have a big enough alternator and wiring from the alternator to your battery. The battery is only part of the equation and you may find the other things need upgrading too. Better to do that now that have to deal with the frustration later. If you have other questions about our products, feel free to ask me.
Thanks,
Bill Howell
eCare Manager, OPTIMA Batteries, Inc.

 

Yep , the Diehard is number one. If you had good luck with an Optima, - lucky you.

 

Since you were asking about the Optima battery here's the Red Top I have had installed. I live in the Oregon Cascades and my truck is exposed to all types of weather. My truck has a great deal of electronics installed. I would do it again...

 

Odyssey or Sears Platinum (they are the same) Expensive but worth it.

 

I have a basic sears battery in my truck now wouldn't recomend. I think its gold rated and my motorcraft battery was better this is on a 2006 5.4.

 

That isn't what I said, is it? Buy cheap, get cheap.