My Battery Life Span and some Replacement Tips.

[Peacekeeper6]

Well, after 7 years on the original stock battery, I noticed that the cranking speed during the start sequence was getting slower. I decided to replace the battery so I wouldn't get stuck on the road with a no-start problem.

To be honest, I'm pretty impressed on how long it lasted. I think I helped with its longevity because I had it hooked up to a Deltran Battery Tender during the winter months. Some have said that this practice isn't good and decreases the life of the battery, but I think I'm keep doing what I've been doing.

Replacing the battery is pretty straight forward. I YouTubed the procedure, but thought I'd offer a couple of tips:

1. That battery hold-down bracket is a B*TCH to put back on. At first I tried to do it blind, but was unsuccessful after 20 minutes. I came pretty close to saying "Eff it", but I don't like the idea of the battery bouncing around without that bracket. The trick is to use a mirror and a headlamp, once you hook those pesky tabs into the two hidden slots, simply simultaneously tilt the battery to its rightful place. Unless you have "x-ray vision" or if "The Force" is strong in your family, it's really the only way to put that bracket back.
2. The new Yuasa battery comes with new hardware. However, the new bolts that secure the terminals to the battery are SHORTER. I suggest you keep using the longer, stock bolts for a more secure connection.

Anyway, good luck and May The Force Be With You.

(cue "Star Wars" theme)

 

[Mikey]

I would say whatever you're doing, it's working. Hopefully this battery will hold up the same way!!

 

[EdMat]

I think we have all fought that B*TCH the first times replacing that bracket. Then it "clicks" and you put it on easily from then on. Can't describe how to do it, but the 2 tabs just start magically aligning with the holes.

 

[Jetfixer]

If you ever have to remove the battery again, simply put the hold down bracket back into the tab slots first and tape it up. Then put the battery in and remove the tape, lower the hold down and attach the bungee. No need to struggle.

 

[safecracker]

Jerfixer, thanks for the tip. I too have struggled with the bracket.

 

[Albec]

I'm convinced that a battery tender will increase the longevity of these car batteries.

I have several vehicles in the stable and I constantly move my battery tender between them all year long. I'll leave the tender on for a week and then move it over to another vehicle. All of my vehicles' batteries last much longer than what's considered 'normal'.

Case in point, my two 2016 Mazdas. I have an MX and a CX, same year and both with the OEM battery. 10 years old now and still cranking strongly. My 2003 Chevy pickup bought new, and it has a dual battery setup. I replaced the OEM batteries 10 years ago, still cranking like new.

YMMV