I agree with Loren; you'll get a lot of opinions. 

For my two cents, I think it worth the extra bucks for AGM batteries; Optima or Duracell come to mind. I've used the Optima's in both my vans and a few boats with great results, in my mind.

By great results, I mean they hold a charge longer than lead-acid's (I've got a yellow-top Optima that's going on 7 years) and resist damage from freezing temperatures.

When I was in the Army, our lead-acid batteries would die out in 2 to 3 years in our light tricks.  AGM or glass-mats would last 4 to 5 years.

No scientific evidence, just personal experience.

Gregg
90 Westy (Red Top Optima)

On Jun 9, 2011, at 10:15 PM, Loren Busch <starwagen@GMAIL.COM> wrote:

> RE: Batteries
> Ellen, you are going to get a bunch of answers on this one so put this in
> the mix.  Many think that the best value for the dollar is to buy at
> Wallmart.  Good value for the dollar and their warranty is great.  Another
> great warranty is the batteries at Auto Zone, but more expensive.  Others
> also tout NAPA and their warranty.