The multiple small batteries in parallel is just not a good idea.

Why?

The A/H ratings are inflated, ideal conditions and all the way down to
10.5 volts.

Charging current has to be limited due to the small size. Pooping 14 volts
of alternator power is not a good idea.

Lots of connections to service.

Still spending 1.50 to 2.00 per amp hour.

Short life as bad as Optima.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Warren Chapman
Sent: Wednesday, August 08, 2007 3:40 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Westy large battery capacity options

Here's one....$35.50 each plus shipping.

http://www.batteriesasap.com/48.html

Also an 18AH size is available....every so slightly thinner.

http://www.batteriesasap.com/sla1712.html

http://www.batteriesasap.com/659.html

Have you got any better brands...soources....Mark?

I'm excited about this possibility...looks like we can potentally get
quite a few days worth of camping AH for an electric fridge/ FA furnace,
etc, withuot an expensive solar rig to supplement.

"Hinged trays under the floor" ?? Hmmmm. Like to see how these would be
designed/made.

Also like to know how many will fit in the engine bay box,

 ......because I've been coveting that same space between the frame rail
and the outer sheet metal for a custom tool and "rough" accessories
box ....possibly accessed from a lid cut and made into the floor...would
be easy access near the sliding door ...and the lid hidden under a piece
of carpet.

You're the lead on this Mark.  I'm going to order four of the batteries
right away for trial fitment purposes.

Warren C