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Truck Batteries: Optima vs ????

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Old 12-12-2016, 08:57 AM
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Question Truck Batteries: Optima vs ????

My truck needs new batteries. I can get a pair of Optima red tops for $150 each. I can get regular batteries for around $120 each, I forget the brand, but it's not a no-name. I'd have to order the Optimas, which puts them several days away, though I kinda need 'em NOW, like today or tomorrow.

The question is... are the Optimas THAT Much better? My current batteries are the originals that came in my truck when it was new in 2005. I'd say they've lasted pretty darn well.

Thanks.
Old 12-13-2016, 07:24 AM
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I always had real good luck with the Optima red tops. We used to swap out the pair of 6v batteries on the tractors(JD 4020D, JD 4440, ect...) and use 1 red top in its place. When the time comes to replace mine in the 05, a pair of Optimas is what I'll use.
Old 12-13-2016, 10:53 PM
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Originally Posted by RobG
My truck needs new batteries. I can get a pair of Optima red tops for $150 each. I can get regular batteries for around $120 each, I forget the brand, but it's not a no-name. I'd have to order the Optimas, which puts them several days away, though I kinda need 'em NOW, like today or tomorrow.

The question is... are the Optimas THAT Much better? My current batteries are the originals that came in my truck when it was new in 2005. I'd say they've lasted pretty darn well.

Thanks.
WOW original batteries on an 2005 just Dead Now. That is awesome I would go with the same units that were put in it from the start. I doubt Optima's would last nearly 12 years.
Old 12-14-2016, 10:46 AM
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I put Optima Red Tops in my truck 10 years ago and have not had one single issue with them.
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Old 12-14-2016, 12:03 PM
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Last year I installed a couple group 65 Interstate batteries from Costco. Under $200 for both..... Cant beat their price or their warranty.
Old 12-14-2016, 04:56 PM
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I have had a Optima Yellow top last 11 years before in my old Dodge.
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Old 03-07-2017, 08:21 PM
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Sears used to have a Diehard Platinum something or other-- made by Odyssey and a VERY good battery. Actually an AMAZING battery. Mine cranked my truck for a total of nearly 2 min in sub zero temps when the M4s weren't amenable to a morning start.

Since there's no cheaper Odyssey offered by Sears now, I"d pony up for real Odyssey.
Old 04-25-2017, 10:40 PM
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Anything but Optima. I know a few people that have destroyed them by normal charging, Most do not last, I would go convential wet cell, Walmart has been highly rated by Consumer report. Interstate is always good.
Old 04-27-2017, 10:09 AM
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Originally Posted by KATOOM
Last year I installed a couple group 65 Interstate batteries from Costco. Under $200 for both..... Cant beat their price or their warranty.
I second the Costco ones, their warranty is second to non.
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