My AC DELCO light is out.....gonna replace and not sure if I should run over to Sears and get a Die Hard or try something like an Optima or other....opinions????

What discourages me against Optima is the threads written on trouble finding fit and adapter kits used....then there is the issue of who carries em...(guess their website would tell all)

 

Go with either a ACDelco AGM or a Optima Redtop...see Tech Tips for PN's.

 

AGM? will that leak like the garbage they give you at the factory?

 

Also what do you guys think of a Sears Die Hard battery???

 

No. AGM is the post-leaky battery for the C5...I would recommend it.

 

Sears batteries are not AGM. Since the car's computer is under the battery I would avoid putting anything but an AGM (Gel type battery). Optima (around $100) or ACDELCO AGM (around $100) types are the way to go.

The Optima (Sprial Wound Technology) has an extra set of posts on the top that are not used (some people connect accessories or put a cover over them). The reason for the extra posts is that the battery can fit different type cars (side posts or top posts).

AC Delco's website states the following part numbers for their AGM type battery for C5 corvettes (type in your model year).
78P-7yr Larger Size
75P-7Yr Smaller Size

The larger size is a slightly stronger battery (higher CCA), so if the larger size fits, then that is the one to install. Earlier C5's used the larger size and GM went to smaller size in new C5 (2002). Therefore if your battery tray can fit the larger size, then that would be the way to go.

In addition, the AC Delco website states features of their AGM (Prismatic Technology) type battery. http://www.acdelco.com/html/pi_batt_plat_main.htm
They claim:

"The Professional Platinum Battery From ACDelco Lasts
Nearly 35 Percent Longer Than the Competitor's Spiral-Wound Battery.


[Modified by ProDesign, 11:00 AM 10/18/2002]


[Modified by ProDesign, 11:02 AM 10/18/2002]

 

Just installed the small Delco AGM 75R plenty of power and smaller than the old one.

 

I have the Optima in all of my Vette's. Very good batteries. :yesnod:

 

Whats a good place to start for a AGM? I did a search on their website and no local parts retailers........

Searched Pep Boys and they have the red top....is this ok(same as yellow top) if I want to play some music on radio while wash/waxing?

 

Go Optima Red Top, I had no problems at all at Pep Boys getting a battery and installing it right then. The one I got does have the dual posts, but that was no big deal in my opinion.

As for Red Top as opposed to Yellow Top, the Yellow Top is a deep cycle marine battery and good for cars with aftermarket stereos or lots of extra electrical needs. It does give you longer time for playing the radio when the car is off but the battery is heavier and costs more. Personal preference as to which you install.


[Modified by timbrwolf9, 2:10 PM 10/18/2002]

 

75R? Isn't that the non-AGM battery???

 

Call around to various dealers ACDelco AGM. I called one, and was quoted $149 and would have to wait several days. Made another called, they got it within an hour for $101. I just like the factory look, thus I went with the ACDelco. Optima's are also great batteries, but that have side AND top posts.

 

Go get yourself an Optima, and never worry again!
Mikael
:) :) :)

 

Installed an Optima Redtop this morning. Shop wanted $160 total :eek: :eek:

Called my mechanic and ordered it and installed for me for $110.00 :yesnod: :yesnod:

 

Thanks for all your help.....I just got off the phone with a dealer(called many) got prices of $180, $170, $105.......pays to call around.....I am sure you wouldnt be surprised at the few I called that had no clue what I was looking for and said they couldnt get it.....So I decided to go with the AC Delco AGM 78P-7YR for the factory look and since it came in cheaper than the Optima.....I looked at the positive terminal and doesnt look like it leaked....any special thing to look for then residue of wetness????

Thanks as usual...I think one of the best things about having a Corvette is all the great support from you guys!

:cheers:

 

The Optima Red Top and Yellow Top are two different kinds of batteries from each other. The Yellow Top is a "Deep Cycle" battery, the Red Top isn't. If you want to play your stereo for a long time with the car off use the Yellow Top. If you just want a strong starting battery then get the Red Top. They are both sealed "Gel Cell" batteries so either would be a good choice.
:yesnod:

 

The Optima battery that Pep boys sold me never fit properly in my car so I bought the Everstart MAXXlife at Wal-Mart for HALF the price and got a 9 year warranty :crazy: . This battery has way more CA and CCA than the AC-Delco and can really hold a charge

 

I think very highly of them. I've used them for years without any problems. I use one now in my current Vette! :yesnod:

Tom

 

Not all pre-2001 C5s had leaky batteries, so if yours wasn't wet, don't worry about any previous damage - just enjoy the new AGM. It's the finest battery money can buy! :cheers:

 

I just replaced my 3 yr old AC Delco 78H with a 75P. When I removed the old battery I found corrosion on the positive terminal and also noticed a bit of moisture. So it was just starting to leak but fortunately nothing went down the side of the battery. The newer Delco AGM is the way to go IMHO.