Optima Batteries....which one?

[Wanderlusty]

Red top, yellow top...which is best suited for what?

Right now, I am running everything completely stock, but plan on a winch in the hopefully not too distant future. Eventually, would like a dual battery set up, too, but one project at a time for me...

So what is the difference, and what would be the better battery to use for a daily driver that sees frequent trail duty and will eventually have some accessoried?

[asteffes]

The yellow top is considered a deep-cycle battery and can better withstand repeated deep discharging. Of course, any battery that is discharged completely many times will suffer from a loss of capacity, but the yellow top is designed to tolerate better. The red top is a starting battery, with slightly more cold cranking amps and a slightly lower reserve capacity in some cases, but it's also less expensive than the yellow top.

Another option you may want to consider is the blue top. This is larbeled a marine battery, but it has the capacity of about 1.5 red or yellow top batteries, can be used as a starting and deep cycle battery at the same time. It's expensive (around $200) but if you have the space it's a great super-battery for those who want the capacity.

[Nullifier]

I originally had a red top and ran the hell out of a wonch with issues. I eventually moved that into my daily and went to a yellow top. I can tell no difference since I'm not running fridges and other things with the motor shut off. I am about to do a dual batt set up with 2 yellow tops.


I think with eather you wouldbe fine. If you can aford ayellow I say go for it over kill can be good.

[Wanderlusty]

Sounds good. The blue top is intriguing, but probably more battery than I need at the moment.

I think I will price shop for a yellow top and see what local prices are. The red top would probably actually fit the bill, but from the quick search I have done on the net, I think the extra few $$$ for a yellow is probably a pretty good investment to make...

Thanks!

[BajaTaco]

Based on what you said, I would get the Yellow Top. The Optima yellow top has plenty of cranking power for starting, and doesn't require the typical trickle charging. It can tolerate unlimited charge current so long as the heat threshold is not exceeded.

Last time I checked, the specs on a blue top and yellow top of the same size are indentical. So I wouldn't pay more for a blue top if it were me.

[cshontz]

I ran a yellow with a winch and the fridge. It really held up well, and between active winching and "fridging", it has been discharged repeatedly. After two years of use, I did not perceive any deterioration, and it was sold with my previous vehicle. I expect to go this route again.

[Hltoppr]

I use a red top for starting and a blue top for my fridge and other excessories...

-H-

[Mike S]

I have been using two group 31 Optima Yellow Tops in my cruiser. They are actually a combination starting/deep draw battery. I have tons of strating power and can run accessories as well.

Mike

[calamaridog]

http://www.odysseybatteries.com/

:shakin:

Open your mind to other options!

[91xlt]

yeah the odysseys are also good batts. but IMO the optimas are the omnly way to go!! if your rig is stock and staying that way save a couple $$$ and go with the red tops. if there is any chance of electrical upgrades the yellow tops are the way to go. i like dual set ups myself. in my rig i run a red top for stock electrics, except the radio, i moved that feed to the yellow top, and yellow top for anything i add, i also run a third batt, another yellow top in rear for camping, back up power and any electrics i add in rear.

[HongerVenture]

http://www.odysseybatteries.com/

:shakin:

Open your mind to other options!

Hey Calamari,
How does the price of Odyssey compare to Optima? I read the webpage for Odyssey and I'm very interested in these as an alternative. My main qualification is that the battery be a "dry cell" or sealed battery.

Joel

[offroad_nomad]

A Blue Top D34M is going in the 4Runner next.

[calamaridog]

These people really know their batteries and they are a major distributor of Odyssey batteries. Their website is fantastic too. They have all the specs and measurements listed.

http://www.odysseybatteries.com/

I believe they make a great product and perfect for a starting or single battery. Many of the race trucks and buggies I've seen are running the Odyssey batteries now. I also know several people with custom airplanes who are using them.

Search the web for pricing. Some places have free shipping sometimes.

I am currently using the 1200 MJT (metal jacket) as my starting battery. It has plenty of cranking power. I'm using the battery hold down tray sold by West Coast Batteries also. Several people are using the 1700 MJT who only run one battery and also have some accessories too.

Odyssey 1200MJT Specifications:

1200 cranking amps for 5 seconds
1090 cranking amps for 10 seconds
900 cranking amps for 20 seconds
Short circuit current over 2600A
44 amp hours
78 minute reserve capacity with 25amp load
With metal jacket and SAE automotive terminals
Length 7.87'
Width 6.66'
Height 7.55' including the terminals
Weighs 38.2 lbs

[calamaridog]

Odyssey Red Top - For comparison

"These batteries are designed for engine starting applications. They are NOT recommended or warranted for use in deep cycle applications."

MODEL NUMBER 34 & 34R
PERFORMANCE
Voltage 12v
Cold Cranking Amps @ 0F 800
Cranking Amps @ 32F 1000
Reserve Capacity 110
Capacity (C/20 Rate) 50
Internal Resistance (ohms) .0030

PHYSICAL SPECS

Length 10"
Width 6 7/8"
Height 7 13/16"
Mimimum Weight (lbs) 37.9
Type Post/Terminal SAE Post Dual
BCI Group 34 & 34R

[VikingVince]

The offroad community is more or less Optima "nuts":exclaim: (I do have a red top for my starter battery!)

IMO, there are much better ways to go for an AUXILLARY battery(depending on your needs)...batteries that utilize superior technology (AGM -Absorbed Glass Mat...withstands vibration better and recharges faster) and have much higher amp hours (100+). Optima batteries have only 45-55 amp hours, depending on the model...and, as per their website, they say their batteries withstand vibration 15 times better than TRADITIONAL batteries. Anyway... Odyssey is one alternative that has been mentioned here. Lifeline is another. check it out at:
www.lifelinebatteries.com
www.lifelinebatteries.com/rvcomps.php

If you're setting up an auxillary battery system for a frig/freeze and other stuff, I would say it's preferable to have as many amp hours as you can get within cost and size guidelines...especially if you like camping in one spot for 3-5 days...like I do. If you're just stopping for 1 night, or two...amp hours aren't that important a consideration.

I have a Concorde Lifeline 31T for my auxillary battery...it has 105 amp hours and cost me $130...it weighs 69 pounds...Optimas are around 40lbs...but for me the extra pounds are justified - higher amp hours, withstands vibration better, recharges faster, lasts longer.

[Wanderlusty]

Well, it took a little longer than planned, but I finally hauled home a brand new Optima Yellow Top!

Now time to start saving for the accessories that make such a battery a neccessity...

[Scenic WonderRunner]

I don't have room for two normal size batteries.

So I wondered about this idea......

Use two.....

As seen in the pic below

PC 680MJT Specs: (http://www.odysseybatteries.com/battery/pc680mjt.htm)

680 cranking amps for 5 seconds
595 cranking amps for 10 seconds
525 cranking amps for 20 seconds
Short circuit current over 1800A
17 amp hours
25 minute reserve capacity with 25amp load
With metal jacket and automotive terminals
Length 7.27"
Width 3.12"
Height 7.42"
Weight 15.4 lb



I think I could fit two of these in the same spot (see size above) as my reg. size Sears Die Hard...and each one of these has the same crank power as my current regular battery. They also weigh only 15lbs. compared to the 38lbs. of the 1200MJT. I would rather have two 1200's.....but they won't fit.

Then do the switch thing like Boston Mangler and others. I would like to have the switch in the cab under dash though.

Now that I've looked at the Odyssey site more....two of the 925MJT's might fit if I tip them on their skinny side up.

Any thoughts........?


http://www.odysseybatteries.com/battery/pc680mjt_lg.jpg

[david despain]

even 2 of the small batteries combined dont have the amp hr capacity of the 1200mjt. so if you could fit one of those in there that would seem to be a better option just off the top of my head. also then you wouldnt have the extra hassle of wiring them in parralllel or setting up a combiner or isolator.

[Scenic WonderRunner]

even 2 of the small batteries combined dont have the amp hr capacity of the 1200mjt. so if you could fit one of those in there that would seem to be a better option just off the top of my head. also then you wouldnt have the extra hassle of wiring them in parralllel or setting up a combiner or isolator.

Thanks for your input David. I know Nothing about electrical stuff!

I had this idea.....because I thought I could run my lights, TV for kewl kamping movies...and other things with one battery.....and still have a fully charged battery to start my truck in the morning.....that had the same 680 crank that I have now with one Sears battery.

Two would give me twice the power I have now....including a "back up". The thing is....even if I had one 1200MJT.....I would be screwed if I ran it all the way down!

The goal would be to try and have a back up battery to start my truck no matter what. If my second battery ran down because I watched too many 4x4 explorer movies (not that I'm a movie junkie...that's just an example)...no biggie.....I can still start in the morning with my back up.

The whole issue is...........no room for two 1200MJT's....which is what I really want!

I understand what you are saying though.

[BajaTaco]

I think your logic is correct (too many fun toys at camp = dead battery). However, the amp-hour capacity on those little batteries is not sufficient IMO. I think you would be better off just getting one of the deep cycle battery packs that has the 120w inverter and 12vdc adapters. Just charge it up before you go on a trip and then if you need to recharge it during the trip, plug it into your cig. lighter or 12v outlet from your main battery elec. system (while you are driving and the alternator is charging). It's not quite as seamless and convenient as a hard-wired dual battery setup, but at least is more flexible as far as if you take it with you and where you put it.

[Scenic WonderRunner]

OK....

So I guess I should be looking at amp hours....and not just "cold crank".

Like I said....I know nothing about auto electric.

Maybe I could put a 1200 in the slot.....and a 680 on the firewall?

Not sure if I want to add another thing to my back storage bins.

Maybe I can think better when my truck is working right!.........hehe


Looks like even this higher priced unit from J.C. Whitney Only has 19 amp hours.

START-IT® 450-AMP JUMPER STARTER / COMPRESSOR / POWER SUPPLY
JC Whitney Price: $79.99 (http://www.jcwhitney.com/autoparts/Product/tf-Browse/s-10101/Pr-p_Product.CATENTRY_ID:2011090/showCustom-0/p-2011090/N-111+10201+600000931/c-10101)


THREE emergency tools in one affordable, portable, cordless, rechargeable unit!
450 amps instantly jump start a "dead" battery
260 psi 12V air compressor inflates almost anything (tires, sports equipment, etc.) quickly, easily
Two DC outlets power your 12V accessories (lights, appliances)
Ultra-bright 10,000-hour cold cathode light illuminates roadside emergencies
Ideal for heavy-duty vehicles. Features 26" heavy-duty welder type battery cables with spark resistant clamps. Alarm warns of reverse polarity hookup. Compressor includes 18" hose, universal adapter and pressure gauge. Automatic 110/120V AC adapter/charger. Built-in high density 19-amp-hour sealed no-spill battery. Manual on/off power control.


http://www.jcwhitney.com/wcsstore/jcwhitney/images/imagecache/G_21118G_CL_1.jpg

[BajaTaco]

(AGM -Absorbed Glass Mat...withstands vibration better and recharges faster) and have much higher amp hours (100+)

Vince, Optima is an Absorbed Glass Mat battery. They use the spiral wound AGM whereas I guess the Lifeline uses the flat plates.




If you're setting up an auxillary battery system for a frig/freeze and other stuff, I would say it's preferable to have as many amp hours as you can get within cost and size guidelines...especially if you like camping in one spot for 3-5 days...like I do.

I couldn't agree with you more there. And the specs you listed for your Lifeline blow away my Group 31 Optima - and my optima cost more and weighs just about the same - around 70 lbs. I think. It looks like the Optima CCA is higher than the Lifeline, but the Lifeline AH capacity is MUCH better. I am really curious why the large differences in specs. And also - I'd like to know where you got one for that price - that is awesome. Thanks.

[BajaTaco]

Looks like even this higher priced unit from J.C. Whitney Only has 19 amp hours.


There are larger cap. units, they just cost more. You also could just make your own. The bottom line is if you want it permanently in the 4runner or not, and where you want to store it. Once you make that decision, then you can start determining what to get.

[david despain]

Thanks for your input David. I know Nothing about electrical stuff!

I had this idea.....because I thought I could run my lights, TV for kewl kamping movies...and other things with one battery.....and still have a fully charged battery to start my truck in the morning.....that had the same 680 crank that I have now with one Sears battery.

Two would give me twice the power I have now....including a "back up". The thing is....even if I had one 1200MJT.....I would be screwed if I ran it all the way down!

The goal would be to try and have a back up battery to start my truck no matter what. If my second battery ran down because I watched too many 4x4 explorer movies (not that I'm a movie junkie...that's just an example)...no biggie.....I can still start in the morning with my back up.

The whole issue is...........no room for two 1200MJT's....which is what I really want!

I understand what you are saying though.

ok so if the whole goal is to have a seperate and completely redundant source that you could start your truck then i think you should look at 2 seperate power sources. that is a sure method to make sure you can start. only you can decide which method best suits your needs though, power pack like you posted from jc whitney( you can get one really similar at home depot by the way) or a true dual batt setup with combiner/isolater. the former is a WHOLE lot simpler and cheaper and can be removed when you dont need it. the later is something you dont need to think about too much once its installed and operating correctly.

[BajaTaco]

...I'd like to know where you got one for that price - that is awesome. Thanks.

BUMP this one.

Vince, I'm in the market for a new battery. Where did you get your lifeline? Thanks

[Scott Brady]

I know Mario from adventure trailers sells them.

[asteffes]

How much room *do* you have? :) Take some measurements then get the largest Odyssey or Lifeline you can fit in that space. These two companies have at least one obvious advantage over Optima and that is they offer batteries in many different sizes. You can get the most battery for your available space, whereas an Optima might require you to compromise a little more - either fit a smaller cell than you could otherwise fit, or do some fabbing to accomodate a larger model. Maybe not a big deal but it's something to consider.

I really need to free up some weekend time to crawl under the truck and investigate a between-the-rails battery compartment. :)

[BajaTaco]

How much room *do* you have? :) Take some measurements then get the largest Odyssey or Lifeline you can fit in that space. These two companies have at least one obvious advantage over Optima and that is they offer batteries in many different sizes. You can get the most battery for your available space, whereas an Optima might require you to compromise a little more - either fit a smaller cell than you could otherwise fit, or do some fabbing to accomodate a larger model. Maybe not a big deal but it's something to consider.

I really need to free up some weekend time to crawl under the truck and investigate a between-the-rails battery compartment. :)

Thanks. I currently have a fairly large area, as I am using the big Optima 31 battery for my aux. I think I should be able to fit a 31 size from Odyssey or Lifeline without too much trouble. I am going to verify though.

[BajaTaco]

I know Mario from adventure trailers sells them.

Thanks for the tip :)

[Grim Reaper]

I am going to go against the grain.....I wouldn't (and didn't) put a Optima in my lawn tractor much less my vehicles. Only reason I would consider one is if I had no other choice but to mount it on it's side.

Problem 1. Cost to much
Problem 2. Sorry warranty (18 month on blue) (ZERO on reds used for winching or deep cycle) (12 month on Yellow)
Problem 3. I have a GM in the stable and the side posts are not suitable for winches of starters. They cannot carry the current. I have seen the Nut (yest regular grade 5 zinc coated nut in a depression in the lead strap) heat up and pull right out of the side..... And Optima will tell you that you cannot use it for starting or winches.

Connect high amperage accessories such as a winch to the top terminals only. Do NOT use the side terminals.

http://www.optimabatteries.com/publish/optima/americas0/en/config/product_info/technology/tips.html
Yes you read that correct. GET YOUR WINCH OFF THE SIDE TERMINALS.
problem 4. I have seen several belly up with no warning.

I run Duralast Batteries from Auto Zone. I buy the biggest that will fit with the longest warranty. Usually around $70 they will install it free and it comes with a 8 year warranty. First 3 are replacement last 5 are prorated. No questions asked. Never had one fail and have bought 7 for 7 different vehicles in about as many years. One my Wife left the parking lights on and we didn't find it for 2 days. FLAT dead showing less then 1 volt. Charged it up drove it 2 more years before selling it. Battery is 4 years old at that point.

The oldest 2 I have bought one is over 6 years old now and last I talked to the guy I sold the truck to it was still going strong. It spent the first 3 years with a Warn 9500i hooked to it in a 6,000+ pound truck. The other one is about 7 and as far as I know still going along fine. In the same time I know one of my buddies is on his 3 Optima in one vehicle 2 in another. I have bore witness too 2 lugs pulled out, and 2 others just fail.

[calamaridog]

I'm looking at the Lifeline GPL-31T as my second battery. I just need to confirm the measurements.

[+ d]

I'm looking at the Lifeline GPL-31T as my second battery. I just need to confirm the measurements.

Already have an Odyssey no? Why the brand switch?

[calamaridog]

Already have an Odyssey no? Why the brand switch?

The Odyssey is my starting battery. Combines CCA's and moderate amp hours too. I feel the Odyssey is very high quality and will continue to use it as my starting battery.

I'm looking at the Lifeline as the 2nd battery to run the future needs such as fridge, lights, winch, etc. That battery should fit my second tray and provide enough amp hours.

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Bryan..........

I want an Odyssey....or two.

Do you know of a local San Diego source?

So I don't have to pay freight.

[asteffes]

Odyssey's dealer network is listed here: http://www.odysseybatteries.com/dealers/california.htm

Expedition Exchange is in Torrance. Might try them. http://www.expeditionexchange.com/contact/

[+ d]

Odyssey's dealer network is listed here:

Expedition Exchange is in Torrance.

Napa is listed for several cities...It seems like you should then be able to order a battery from any Napa.

I do like to support Expedition Exchange whenever possible, and if you are looking for an excuse for a fun place to visit ( :drool: )then this could be it.

[calamaridog]

Brodings Battery - LaMesa CA 619-463-9812

8188 Commercial St.
(near Dixieline)

1200 MJT $164.27
1700 MJT $207.30

Best prices in town. Great service. If they don't have it in stock you are looking at around a week or two.

[mountainpete]

If you are considering buying an Odyssey battery and have a Toyota and can wait a few weeks - wait. Trust me. I will have news shortly of a new solution I am working on with Odyssey/EnerSys.

[Dave]

I had just made my mind up to stop by the store on the way home tonight to order/buy a 1200 MJT and then mountainpete has to chime in and kick it up a notch! :xxrotflma

[mountainpete]

I had just made my mind up to stop by the store on the way home tonight to order/buy a 1200 MJT and then mountainpete has to chime in and kick it up a notch! :xxrotflma

Put it this way Dave... how would you like a 1200 MJT but with the correct reversed posts for Toyotas? (Basically a 34R version)

Sorry - edit that. Make that the PC1500 version... the one up from the 1200...

[asteffes]

That would be excellent. That, and making it nost cost $50+ to ship these things to me!

[mountainpete]

That would be excellent. That, and making it nost cost $50+ to ship these things to me!

Still waiting for costing and availability reports - that's why I am being a bit light on the details. You might even be able to get it locally too... :drool:

[Dave]

Sounds good Pete! Availability will be a factor since I'll need it before the end of September.

[Scenic WonderRunner]

That would be excellent. That, and making it nost cost $50+ to ship these things to me!


I found this site a while back.

http://www.batteryweb.com/odyssey.cfm

Looks like $30 shipping........and prolly no tax.

I was hoping to find a good price locally.....so in case I have a problem.....I can drive up and get it fixed.....and not ship it somewhere.

[ccd8541]

I was hoping to find a good price locally.....so in case I have a problem.....I can drive up and get it fixed.....and not ship it somewhere.

Batteries Plus (http://www.batteriesplus.com/default.aspx) has them.

Chad

[mountainpete]

Sounds good Pete! Availability will be a factor since I'll need it before the end of September.

Dave - I am expecting to get my battery by next Friday (Sept 8). Once I get it and confirm that it all works/fits I will be posting more details.

If you need info sooner, drop me a PM.

[asteffes]

Dave - I am expecting to get my battery by next Friday (Sept 8). Once I get it and confirm that it all works/fits I will be posting more details.

If you need info sooner, drop me a PM.

Sweet!

[grouch]

Mountain, any word on the battery?

[mountainpete]

7wt,

Battery is on the way... I am expecting it next week. I'll post up all the data then - hopefully pics up by next Friday. :jumping:

Pete