Not yet, but I will.  A friend of mine just did it using a dremel and a
jig saw.  His photos are here:

http://jupiter.okb-1.org/p/cam/aux-battery/00index.html

He removed the metal lid and just has carpet covering the side terminals,
which are facing up.

Matt

On Sun, 6 Feb 2005, Bob Stevens wrote:

> From: Bob Stevens <mtbiker62@COMCAST.NET>
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Re: Aux Battery Relay
> Date: Sun, 6 Feb 2005 23:19:10 +0000
>
> Matt, just curious; did you try installing the Optima on its side?
> --
> Bob Stevens
> http://groups.msn.com/BobsPhotoShare/87westysyncro.msnw
>
> -------------- Original message --------------
>
>> Hi Roger,
>>
>> Could be. Still, I'd recommend picking up some 12 gauge electrical wire
>> at an auto parts store, a bunch of screw-on connectors, and some
>> electrical tape so you can make extensions for the short wires. While
>> you're at it, pick up some battery terminals like the one in this picture:
>>
>> http://gallery.openfbo.com/stereo/IMG_3282
>>
>> They are $1.50 each and fit way better than the GoWesty kit. Those are
>> fabric terminal covers protecting the battery. Of course, they should
>> cover the entire terminal, not just the posts. Will have to figure out a
>> bettery way.
>>
>> This Optima battery is really nice. Of course it doesn't fit entirely,
>> the posts prevent the lid from closing. If you end up in this situation,
>> make sure the terminals are protected from the lid. Its painted to be
>> non-conductive, but if the paint corrodes there could be a major explosion
>> right behind the drivers seat.
>>
>> Good luck!
>>
>> Matt
>>
>> On Sun, 6 Feb 2005, Roger Sisler wrote:
>>
>>> From: Roger Sisler
>>> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
>>> Subject: Re: Aux Battery Relay
>>> Date: Sun, 6 Feb 2005 16:20:45 -0500
>>>
>>> Hello,I'm thinking about getting that same hook-up from go westy.Do you
>>> think the battery posts on your new battery are a bit closer together than
>>> most batterys,causing the short wires?Roger
>>>
>