I like the interstates also, I visit my local dealer about every 18-24
months - he's always had a supply of used interstates, for $6 I get a 6 mo
replacement guarantee and a 18-24 month battery.  I just remember to check
with him before I take that long summer trip on the 2nd year.

For the "no finger space" problem, I use 4 tie wraps - hook them together in
pairs, pass the pairs around each end of the battery, lower the battery in
place and leave the tie wraps there, come 2 years, undo the cable
connections, grab the tie wraps, lift the battery out, clean the tray and
sides of the compartment, occasionally it might need some rust inhibitor,
then put in the "new" one and off I go....

I've not had one of these batteries go out while I was away from my home,
but I believe that Interstate is in almost every state...

YMMV

David Palmerston
88 Vanagon GL Wolfsburg

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Joe Fortino [mailto:biker.pride@USA.NET]
> Sent: Friday, April 20, 2001 10:04 AM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Re: [Buying New Battery Today: Advice?]
>
>
> I like Interstate, think i have both a 12v and 6v. they
> should make a 41
>
>
> Joe
>
> PSavage <psavage@SABER.NET> wrote:
> Have decided to buy a new battery for my '85 Westy today.
> I understand I need a type 41.
> All I want is a reliable battery that I can find & have installed
> TODAY  in a small town an hour from me--otherwise, I may find
> myself stuck
> under the redwoods.
>
> Questions:
> *Do all type 41 batteries *fit* in the seatback compartment?
>
> *Is there anything critical I should know to supervise re the
> installation of the battery?
>
> *Warranties & cost aside, are all commonly available type 41
> batteries more or less created equal?
>
> Thanks,
> Phaedra
>
>
> ____________________________________________________________________
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>

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