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Discussion Topic:
1936 battery tray
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Jim43 |
03-07-2012 @ 8:12 PM
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Member
Posts: 3
Joined: Nov 2011
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I own three cars, all with the batteries under the floor board. I have a 36 phaeton, a very nice car. Do people sometimes move the battery tray up to the firewall under the hood for convenience? If this is a common thing to do, what is the best way to do it? It doesn't look that tough to do. I am something of a purist, not in all things if it works better. Thanks; Jim43
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35ford |
03-08-2012 @ 5:46 AM
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Posts: 63
Joined: Oct 2009
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I believe you could mount an Optmia on the frame rail by the starter without modifying the fire wall and then it could be removed and a use the original location. Just a suggestion. I have an Optmia in original location using a drop down bracket. Easy removal to original set up.
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bobs36 |
03-08-2012 @ 8:43 AM
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Posts: 42
Joined: Oct 2009
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i to have a 36, and debated doing the same thing, i am glad i didn't, instead bought a optima, dropped right into the tray etc. keeps everything original etc. beautiful 36 you have.
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supereal |
03-08-2012 @ 9:46 AM
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Senior
Posts: 6819
Joined: Oct 2009
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One of the main advantages of the Optima is that they can be mounted in any position, even upside down, making them ideal for under-the-floor cars. For my '47, I made a wooden box to fit the tray, then placed the Optima in a corner-to-corner position, and used the stock hold down bracket. I made up a wooden top, and had the battery poles emerge at the corners. With the top routed, and three caps attached, most observers don't know it is not a "real" battery. I don't show my cars, and this way is a whole lot less expensive than adapting an actual battery case.
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trjford8 |
03-08-2012 @ 8:26 PM
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Senior
Posts: 4189
Joined: Oct 2009
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Mounting the battery on the firewall is not a good idea. First you have to drill holes for the mounting tray and then there is the possibility of the battery leaking and ruining the paint under the hood. It is also always in the way when you need to work on the right side of the motor. You can get a stainless drop down battery box from Speedway Motors that will mount to your frame under the right front fender. If you have to move the batttery this would be your best option. The battery stays cool, if it leaks it goes on the ground, and it puts the battery closer to the starter. 35 Ford and supereal have also given you another option using the Optima battery.
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Jim43 |
03-12-2012 @ 7:45 PM
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Member
Posts: 3
Joined: Nov 2011
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Thanks for the ideas. I am hearing a lot of votes for the Optima batteries here. My big reason for moving it is so I will be more inclined to maintain it. Check the water and clean posts and all that. I suppose with the Optima, clean the posts good install the battery and seal the posts with some battery spray stuff and forget about it for a long time. That sounds OK to me. Does the voltage regulator need tweeking or is there anything to do other than install it? I have a couple other cars that are getting ready for new batteries too, what is the best way to buy these things? I know they can vary in price depending on where they are bought, but where is good? I am in New Hampshire. Thanks; Jim43
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supereal |
03-12-2012 @ 8:13 PM
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Senior
Posts: 6819
Joined: Oct 2009
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The Optima is a sealed gel cell battery that needs no service. The only precaution is to always charge them slowly, should the need arise. When charging, they do emit a slight amount of gas. Check your charging voltage with a voltmeter across the battery with the engine running above a fast idle. You shouldn't see a reading above about seven and a half volts. Don't try to adjust the voltage regulator. It requires special equipment, and is seldom necessary. You can buy the Optima from any Interstate Battery dealer
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TomO |
03-13-2012 @ 7:07 AM
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Senior
Posts: 7238
Joined: Oct 2009
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Do an online search for the Optima battery. At just a glance I saw the battery for sale for $128.28 - $146.99. If you do not need it right away, keep searching. I bought mine a few years ago for $118 with free shipping and a friend bought his a week later for $112.99 with free shipping.
Tom
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supereal |
03-13-2012 @ 11:01 AM
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Senior
Posts: 6819
Joined: Oct 2009
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If you plan to buy several, most Interstate Battery dealers will likely cut you a deal. Our shop is such a dealer. We pay more dealer cost than the retail price was not so long ago. If you can find the 6 volt variety for less than $125, take it. When ordering online, the shipping charges will add up, as the batteries are fairly heavy. Compared to conventional batteries, the life is remarkable. We still use our original one on the bench for testing purposes. As is said, "it isn't how much you pay, but how often you pay it"!
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Jim43 |
03-17-2012 @ 3:32 PM
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Joined: Nov 2011
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Well they do sound like the way to go. I will start shopping. Thanks for the advice. Jim43
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