Something to keep in mind:
gel-cell batteries have special charging requirements or they will be
damaged.
Optima does not.
Also, as for the 52 amp rating of the Optima, that is at the C/2 rate.
The spec sheet claims 65 amp hours at the C/20 rate
So it's important to make sure you are compare apples & apples.
Finally, if you think you want to use the stock wiring between the starter
and the auxiliary batteries I hope you will reconsider pushing all those
amps through a 2.5mm (equivalent of about a #13 gauge wire). It is not safe.
Good Luck
Bill
90 Westy Syncro
-----Original Message-----
From: Brent Christensen <bchristensen@ROCK-SYSTEMS.COM>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Date: Thursday, July 15, 1999 10:53 AM
Subject: Re: Auxillary battery alternative

>David:
>
>I think I have a superior set-up to the Optima for less money.  I used the
>stock Westy wiring scheme, with the addition of bypassing the cabin lights
>and accessories to the aux battery (in the stock config, using the existing
>wiring, these items still run off the main battery).
>
>The batteries I used are two gel-cell "U1" sized batteries fitted
>side-by-side and wired in parallel.  They provide 66 amp hrs as opposed to
>the Optima's 52, and cost about $60 each.  Plus, they carry a terrific
>guarantee and are available at many battery shops.  You can check out their
>web page at www.eastpenn-deka.com   The guy at the battery shop swore that
>they are better quality than the Optimas (which he also sells)
>
>Also, I have spec sheets for the battery if anyone is interested.  (One of
>these days I will scan them and post them to a web page)
>
>Regards,
>
>Brent Christensen
>'89 GL Syncro Westy "Klaus"
>
>
>-----Original Message-----
>From: David Bogle [mailto:bogle@BWAY.NET]
>Sent: Wednesday, July 14, 1999 11:29 PM
>Subject: Re: Auxillary battery alternative
>
>
>paul banks wrote:
>>
>> Over the last couple of months, I have read many
>> elegant configurations listmembers devised for their battery systems.
>>
>> The way mine are set up is cheap and effective, and I wonder why no one
>else mentions theirs being installed similarily....
>
>Well I've read them all too, and I'm still wondering why not set it up
>as outlined on the Vanagon.com website:
>http://vanagon.com/info/faq/#electrical.  No wires running under the
>body to the starter battery, new relays, etc.
>
>It seems this is how VW intended it to be done.  May, not be bomb proof,
>but that's what I will try first, at least.
>
>Incidentally, I've found an inexpensive source for the Optima D900 M
>(same animal as the D750 S and U, but additional screw posts on top for
>wire connections, and no side "GM" terminals) for $160 delivered (while
>they last)!  www.dcbattery.com
>
>Since I will opt for the upright position, this should be handy.
>
>--
>Regards,
>David Bogle
>Brooklyn
>'87 Syncro Westfalia
>