Wal Mart has a group 41 battery for 39.95 called an everstart.  Don't know
about the venting issue but they have 810 cca.  And lots of warranty
locations nationwide(and I work for Target).  Yes it fits in the hole and
Wally World even sticks the warranty and receipt stuff on the side of the
battery so you don't lose it come failure time.  it's like they except you
to use the warranty(and I have).  I don't get too anal about batteries due
to the 4 speed tranny and years of starter and battery trouble with my VW's
I instinctively park on hills for roll starting ease.

Dimwitted Moose and Flying Squirrel
-----Original Message-----
From: =David-M= <dmc@cyburban.com>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Date: Sunday, July 16, 2000 10:43 AM
Subject: Sears battery for Vanagon

>My Vanagon battery is kaput.
>Two deep discharges within a coupole of months destroyed it (1. theft
>alarm failed to cut out, 2.  parking lights left on).
>Interestingly, my Toyota battery which I attempted to jump start it with
>was *just* able to turn over the starter but not start the beast.
>I called my local Sears whose batteries I always use - answer "No
>battery listed for Vanagon".
>Question: Where do I get a battery for a Vanagon? (other than the
>dealer)