No, it's not true anymore afaik. There are a couple versions of Odyssey
versions that fit without the damage you need to do to make an Optima
fit in one of the sealed compartments like yours. I think the PC1200 is
the best match. GoWesty even sells them. Not cheap.

http://www.gowesty.com/ec_view_details.php?id=3976&category_id=4&category_parent_id=&search_phrase=&start=

The basic compartment is the same on both sides on all Vanagon bodies
but things are added on various Camper models that make it harder to get
even stock size batteries in and out. I think the PC1200 fits easily in
all models, more so than the stock battery size.

Mark

Clint Kolda wrote:
> Nathaniel,  there is only one deep cycle battery that will fit in that
> compartment under the  drivers seat.  That is the OPTIMA yellow top.
> And, it will
> not fit  without a few minor modifications to the compartment lid.
>
>
>
>   Is this true even with a Wolfsburg Westfalia with the factory aux battery under the driver's seat?  I don't have swivel seats if that matters.  The PO put a starting battery in there and I need to get a new one this summer.  I don't want to go chasing after a deep cycle if none will fit.
>
>   Thanks,
>   Clint
>