Not to belittle Laurence Smith and his Sears experience...

Several years ago Consumer Reports did a study of car batteries. They
entered the reported fully expecting to find little difference between
automotive batteries. They were surprised to learn that there were
differences, and that Interstate batteries were among the best, and
with nationwide availablity and support were both checkrated and top
rated.

Now that was, as I say, several years ago and as we all know vendors to
sometimes change. I've been using Interstate batteries in all my
vehicles and haven't had any problems with them during their warranty
period.

The place I've bought batteries from this year has references that
point me to a Group 91 battery for Vanagons. This is the same physical
size as a Group 41 battery, but has higher capacity and cold cranking
amps. Also is a 72 month battery. Not cheap, but I've been satisfied.

Kim Brennan
86 Syncro. 91 Westy Syncro. 90 Tristar
Vienna VA. Sugar Grove WV.