Lightweight battery

[macfly]

In the never ending quest for lightness this battery is the very cheapest 28lbs you can loose from your car. Here is a link to Odyssey (http://www.odysseyfactory.com/product_list.htm) and the unit for our car is the PC1200.

I haven't ordered mine yet, but once my car goes in for the fix, I plan on putting one in as batteries are only good for about 4 years. I also plan on having the LSD and all the other little upgrades like the UUC short shifter, and the transmission mounts done at the same time.

[thegunguy]

I'm actually working on installing my PC1200 today in an effort to lighten the load for MITM. There are two issues that will need to be resolved for the installation as the PC1200 is significantly smaller than the OE battery.
1. Lengthen cables
2. Revise retaining bracket

I think the bracket is pretty straightforward, but the cables require additional effort. So, I may wait until we return from NM.

[macfly]

to locate and hold the battery in place. I use this stuff in camera and equipment cases, you can buy it in different densities, and quite probably it will allow you to use the OEM locks and cables by correct positioning of the battery.

[thegunguy]

I actually have some "super" high density foam that is used as exterior insulation for homes. I used it to protect the final drive when I shipped the LSD/Gear components to Metric Mechanic for assembly. In addition to the top strap, HDF should be perfect for keeping the battery in place – just have to use less than 28 lbs.

However, I just discovered that the standard PC1200 is not the correct unit. The PC1200T appears to be the correct one as it has the SAE posts to accommodate the cabling on the Z8. So, I've got to exchange batteries now - so much for lightening the load for MITM.

[2112]

Gun;

Is the PC1200T a better fit?

[thegunguy]

...the only difference is the posts/terminals.

I have completed the rewiring (merely an extended ground cable - 20"), but I have yet to fabricate a new retaining strap. My weekends are full for a few weeks, but it's on my list. I'll post the entire modification processes upon completion.

BTW - I ended up keeping the PC1200 and bought screw-in SAE terminals which replicates the posts on the PC1200T.

[2112]

Just bought a PC1200T today. Keep us posted on how you secured yours. I fabricate my own wires so that is not and issue but I am wondering if I should have the Machinist I have on retainer for custom boat parts make us an adaptable billet aluminum top strap???

[thegunguy]

...I haven't looked at it since returning from MITM. I'm probably just going to fabricate something from generic metal strapping. Be sure to post pics if you do billet aluminum.

[KenZ8]

It appears that the 1200T is available with and without a metal jacket. Is this an external jacket like a case cover? Is it needed?

[thegunguy]

No, the jacket model has metal coated terminals (brass I believe) instead of the standard lead.

[KenZ8]

Does that cut down on the corrosion that can form at the terminal?

[thegunguy]

After further investigation, Odyssey's distributor, West Coast Batteries, offers a nice billet tie down option for ~$110. It's a bit pricey, but I looks nice. See below.

http://www.odysseybatteries.com/accessories/billet.htm

I'm probably going to go this route.

[Norcal]

It all adds up.

[Robert Linton]

Like this?

[2112]

Will you be selling a retrofit kit?:D

[Robert Linton]

Sorry, but no.

[Robert Linton]

Here are the new battery straps with locking tabs welded on. Next step is powder coating. Rifle -- yours is almost on the way!

[2112]

Sorry, but no.

Sorry to hear they will be after all.

[Robert Linton]

There is no kit. One is for me in place of the original that we simply shortened without the locking tabs, one is for Rifle who sent me a part and instead of simply making it shorter as a favor (he didn't ask, I volunteerd), we are doing a new part, and the third is a for a friend who has a Z8.

[Robert Linton]

With new strap and cutoff switch bracket anodized.

[macfly]

Looks great, does the cut-off help keep it full if you are over-nighting away from your trickle charger, and does this kind of battery trickle charge in the same way?

[thegunguy]

According to the specs of the battery, there should be no issues when driven on trips, etc. However, it will exhaust faster if the power is left on without the engine running. Also, the Odyssey does require a different charger if you plan to leave the car static for a while - see my posts.

I believe Bob's driving frequency warrants the cut-off switch. I think he could double the mileage pulling out of the garage!:D