Optima Battery Update

timb · Aug 31, 2004

Another angle on the Optima - I think I'd like to get a beefy enough model (and I think the large-frame CUTs have plenty of room) to help with possible aux. electrics duty down the road. Always thought it would be nice to be able to run a winch or an inverter from the tractor. A second set of terminal post mounts as some of the models have wouldn't be awful either.

rockyridgefarm · Aug 31, 2004

good point!! The upgraded alternators are pretty pricey!

Bellville · Aug 31, 2004

I understand your dilemma, I finally e mailed optima and asked what battery they would recommend for my 790. Assuming they might not have a compatibility list for tractors I described the size of the engine and related alternator specs.

They just wrote back and said thanks for your interest but we don't make a battery for your application. /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

Needless to say I was disappointed, however with all the good results I have read about here on TBN, I will look further.

glalonde · Aug 31, 2004

I've pulled the front grille this weekend just to check (I've done it also at the begining of the season ...there was nothing then). This time, I had 2 spots (~2"x2" each) of spillage in front of the battery. I've used the pressure washer (in wide mode) to clean. The paint is gone where the 2 spots were. I didn't remove the battery though to check under, but hope that the pressure washer cleaned the underside too. I'll have to keep a close eye on this.

rockyridgefarm · Sep 1, 2004

OK, if I was to go with a Red Top Optima, does anyone know which one works?

CVHoss · Sep 1, 2004

Mike,
Optima's web site isn't much help. They still don't show the model that I purchased. Unless you can find information to the contrary, I don't believe you're going to find a red top to fit in your 4310. You should have the same amount of room to work with that I had in my 4400 and the 34/35 series batteries WILL NOT FIT. You won't be able to get the grill back on in the correct position leaving a gap at the bottom. I know this as I first purchased a D34 and learned the hard way. What you need is the 51 series and the only 12V in that size I can find is a yellow top. They do make a 51 series red top, but it's only 6V. You can see specs for most of the batteries, including dimensions, here, but this retailer is more expensive (even with the included shipping) then Remy.

Hoss