Deep cycle, same animal, I purchased an Exide "Orbital" Marine Deep cycle,
same spiral wound glass interior design as the Optima brand. For me it was
easier to get and about $50 less. The spiral wound designs charge faster,
less suseptible to vibration damage, last longer, can be mounted in any
position, and are sealed so they need no venting, (the aux battery location
has no vent like the pass side location).

> From: Ron Schlamp <r.schlamp@SK.SYMPATICO.CA>
> Reply-To: Ron Schlamp <r.schlamp@SK.SYMPATICO.CA>
> Date: Sun, 13 Jan 2002 14:19:53 -0600
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Alternate Aux Battery
>
> Inknow that all the conversation about aux batteries on the list is about
> the Yellow Top however I recently chatted with my local battery suply dude
> who suggested a marine battery which is used for trolling motors.  I can not
> remember the brand however he said it was just as good as the yellow top.
> Anyone out there had any succes or done any comparisons between these types
> of batteries.
>
> Ron Schlamp
> r.schlamp@sk.sympatico.ca