Batteries

[TD]

From the subject of a thread of mine that's been active lately, I think most of you know the battery in my M3 farted out.

It's a somewhat known fact that the OE BMW battery is made by Douglas Battery in North Carolina. BMW charges $135+ for their version. But Batteries Plus sells a very similar Douglas for $89.99.

Here's the OE BMW battery:

http://members.roadfly.com/ren/DSCN1839.JPG

http://members.roadfly.com/ren/DSCN1837.JPG

Here's the Batteries Plus battery:

http://members.roadfly.com/ren/DSCN1838.JPG

http://members.roadfly.com/ren/DSCN1836.JPG

The Batteries Plus version has the new green eye that allows you to see it's status/condition but it is a bit longer. It does have the unique BMW-spec bottom shape which allows you to secure it like the OE battery. It's just a tighter fit.

Just something to consider when it comes time to replace your battery (and it will).

[bren]

I just replaced the battery in my Jeep yesterday with an Optima Red Top.

http://www.expeditionexchange.com/optima/DCP_1611340.jpg

I like the sealed, no fuss aspect of the Optima. I don't know if they make a Group 92 replacement though.

[The HACK]

One thing I found out about going aftermarket...

They don't always fit right. If the Douglas battery fits in the compartment perfectly and has the vent hose in the right place, I should've gotten this instead.

The Interstate Battery I got fits OKAY, but it's about 1/4" smaller all around and the vent hose is in an awkward location. I had to stuff some foam pads between the battery and the bracket that holds it down to prevent it from sliding around.

It is about 10lbs lighter though.