Mike,
I used Group 53 (original) batteries in my '66 for a while. (The old Group
53s give better clearance between the side of the battery and the stuff on
the side of the engine, but a battery is not too hard to pull since you
should disconnect it before doing much fiddling with the engine anway.) I
switched to Group 24's a long time ago, however. At the time, Group 24 was
about the smallest reasonable alternative -- good cold cranking power and
good total amp-hour rating. Now there are many smaller battereis which will
perform as well.
Regardless of the size battery you purchase, you want the positive terminal
towards the rear of the car and closest to the engine. I don't think you
will have any trouble with terminal match-up in the US as long as you stay
with automotive or marine batteries which have top posts -- none of the side
terminal types. Get a matching tray and hold-down (there are universal
types) and your in business. Some people swear by the newer batteries which
look like a six pack of Fosters. They were first introduced for marine use,
as I recall. IMHO, if you're in a warm climate, and take care of the
battery, you shouldn't need someting that expensive, though.
I also have a '67-1/2 2000 which originally had a Group 53. The PO put some
smaller battery into it, and I am not sure of the group number.
Datsunparts sells Group 24 trays and hold-downs if you want something
tailored for the roadster.
Gary
----- Original Message -----
From: "Michael Knorr" <mhknorr@msn.com>
To: "Datsun Roadster Listserver" <datsun-roadsters@autox.team.net>
Sent: Friday, February 26, 2010 6:48 PM
Subject: [Roadsters] Need advice for replacing an old battery
> My '66 has one of those old 12-volt batteries that are about twice as long
> as
> they are wide. My local specialist battery dealer calls them a 53-40, and
> I've
> been asked twice before if I own a Corvair when asking about a new
> battery.
> These batteries last about three years almost to the day -- if I
> religiously
> monitor the acid levels -- and replacing one costs over $100.
>
>
>
> My question is, what must I do to replace my battery with a more modern
> one
> besides finding a new tray for the battery to sit in? Do newer ones just
> slip
> right in, or must I upgrade any electrical? My '66 still has points,
> condenser, etc; it's pretty much stock all around. I'd appreciate any
> advice
> you can give.
>
>
>
> And if this post offends anyone, please reply to the list, and not to me
> personally. Thanks!
>
>
>
> Regards, Michael Knorr
>
> 1966 SPL311-03639
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