Let us let some flames begin!

I personally think the optima is somewhat overpriced for the capacity
and performance being offered. The only advantage is the small size and
the ability to mount it in any position. If your need is intermittent,
than just buy the Wal-Mart group 41 battery for $39.97 and use it till
it croaks. If it dies in less than a year, you get a new one free. Past
that it is prorated and they do not bother asking how you abused it. If
the need for reliable power is high, the a deep cycle battery is the way
to go. Regardless of what the ads for high tech batteries try to claim,
the basic, flooded cell, open top battery will offer the greatest
performance, life, and resistance to abuse is the best. Golf cart style
batteries such as the Trojan t series (6-volt, need) are the best. In
the mid price arena, Trojan and Interstate are my choice. If you want
the ultimate, go here! http://www.dcbattery.com/rolls.html.

Of course this is overkill.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM] On Behalf
Of David Devere
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2003 12:03 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Optima vs. Generic

Can anyone convince me why, besides the obvious reason of better charge
life, I should buy an Optima battery vs. using an old Die Hard for a
second aux. battery in my van?  What are the problems with using a
conventional battery?  I understand the Optima is safer because it is
sealed but do I really need to be that worried?

Thanks -Dave
Duluth MN Where the temp tomorrow is going to be a sultry 40F.  Warm
enough finally to work on the Van!
87 Syncro Westy with 177K