I know this is not specifically a audio question, but I figured you guys would be more appropriate to answer this question. My battery just died yesterday and I was thinking of replacing it with a deep cycle battery instead of the regular AC Delco that I have in there now.

I was thinking of getting an Optima battery (yellow top) but someone also suggested I look into a marine battery instead. Does anyone have any comments or suggestions on this? Your input would be very much appreciated.

 

I've been using an Optima yellow top Deep Cycle for over 6 years now without any problems. I had to get a little creative with mounting it though. Seems the little block used to hold the standard battery down doesn't quite fit.

 

Optima's made by Interstate; http://www.ibsa.com/www_2001/content...ery_optima.asp

Plus, Interstate & Diehard batteries are stronger than the AC Delco you had... as battery technology improves, so do the CCA's. Avoid cheap batteries like Walmart or Kmart or Pep Boys or Autozone or etc; these places put their own label on a cheap (like Exide) battery. In fact, look at a battery like a Pep Boys "Pro-Start" and you'll find "manufactured by (someone else)" in small letters on the sticker.

Sears and AC and Interstate are the only companies that sell their own batteries; you really can't go wrong with them.

 

If you have a lot of engine mods done, you don't want a Yellow top, unless you plan on running two batteries. The Yellow top has around 550 cold-cranking amps; most likely less than the Delco you had in there. Start with a Red top 75/35. They're cheaper, have 700-something CCAs to start your engine up right, and will run much better than the Delco. As your stereo system grows, invest in a dual-battery set-up, in which case you run a Yellow top for the system. If you have an amp powering a sub or two with aftermarket speakers and headunit, the Yellow top is really just a waste of money. The Red top can handle being deep cycled once in a while, much better than a Delco can. Hope this helps.

 

I put a Wal-Mart Everstart Maxx with 950 CCA.....works fine for me and Wal-Mart batteies are rated very good by consumer repors

 

ya i bought that wal-mart dura-something for $60 puts out 1000 Cranking amps, and 900 CCA, i havent had any problems with it yet, but i dont have my stereo in yet, so it hasnt been hard on the battery, but its got a 9yr warranty