Regardless of labeling there are only a few manufacturers that actually make
the DIN style batteries our van use. Shop by warranty and ease of return.
Truly defective batteries will usually display a problem in the first few
months of use. After that use and abuse are the real killers. For batteries
that are infrequently used the next killer are those economy trickle
chargers. The keep a battery floated at some voltage which will drive out
the electrolyte and corrode the positive plates. You really need a smart
charger to maintain batteries long term.

Starting batteries are not good for cycling applications. Past the
advertising and hype, the Optima should really be spelled "disappointment".
For cycling application you really want a flooded deep cycle battery such as
those made by Trojan. These can typically last 5 years or more with some TLC
and proper charging.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Arkady Mirvis
Sent: Wednesday, February 10, 2010 1:54 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Best battery

Hello,
I suspect that a lot was written already here about batteries. New are
coming daily.
While leaving in USA I used DIEHARD batteries. They performed well in my
diesel Jetta in daily use. But in 1987 Westy they didn't last. I removed the
battery usually for winter storage and trickle charged. In no more than 3
years the battery would fail. I recall  that the first, original VARTA
battery failed on the second year.
Now I am determined to get the best battery for my Westy, price doesn't
matter. The battery must fit into its compartment under the front passenger
seat. What are the maximum dimensions of the battery one can comfortably put
in and get out?

Many Westy owners do use auxiliary batteries. I used DIEHARD batteries. Not
with great success. Can anyone suggest the best battery?
I had my batteries in the compartment under the Westy's rear seat. I would
like to hear suggestions about alternative aux. battery location.

Thanks, Ark