14 replies to this topic

[brivinci]

Looks like my battery of 8 years packed it in officially. Of course, on a dark and rainy night...

 

So, I am interested what size batteries you are running, particularly if you have a factory 12" alloy and, even more particularly, running Yoko A539 12" tires. Currently, my spare is still on my last tire setup, the Yoko A048R, which has a much smaller diameter overall. Sure, I could remove one of my road wheels, stuff it in the boot and measure BUT you guys probably can rattle off the perfect battery in seconds...oh, and its cold out:-)

 

 

[minimat]

I use an 063, good fit in the box, sensible price and a good power increase, unless you have a massve stereo and loads of spotlights i dont think you need any bigger.My spare wheel is standard 12 in and fits fine.

Edited by minimat, 22 February 2019 - 12:12 PM.

[brivinci]

Well, its an SPi so you have the draw of the EFI system. I also have 4 spots fitted to the front per the factory. Lately when I had everything on, you could see/hear the system stressed. For example, I was driving at night with main beam on, 4 spots on, and heater motor running. I installed a wiper relay thing that lets you have intermittent wipers. I had that set for a every 5 seconds to so. When the wipers would come on, you could hear the heater blower motor change in tune and a slight dimming of the interior lights. Now, the battery was clearly on its way out but it got me thinking.

[Mikey205]

Well, its an SPi so you have the draw of the EFI system. I also have 4 spots fitted to the front per the factory. Lately when I had everything on, you could see/hear the system stressed. For example, I was driving at night with main beam on, 4 spots on, and heater motor running. I installed a wiper relay thing that lets you have intermittent wipers. I had that set for a every 5 seconds to so. When the wipers would come on, you could hear the heater blower motor change in tune and a slight dimming of the interior lights. Now, the battery was clearly on its way out but it got me thinking.

I’d be looking at having your alternator beefed up a touch to cope with your electrical demands. You ideally need to work out what amps you are pulling with everything switched on (amps = watts / volts). That will give you an idea of whether your alternator is ‘man’ enough for what your expecting of it.

Mike

[Wiggy]

I used a taller battery (because I had it to hand).

Ended up making new longer battery clamp hooks out of some studding. My Sportspack space saver juuuuust fits beside it.

Out of a MR2 Roadster FYI. I have no idea if it's of a higher capacity.

[Wiggy]

Just checked. It has 1/3 more capacity.

[hunterg30]

Duracell 0273 ,has five years garauntee

[brivinci]

Didnt know Duracell made car batteries. I don't think they sell them here in the USA. 

 

So, what was the stock battery and its output on these SPi cars? I know the alternator fitted from the factory was said to be up to the task. I have not added any major power sucks and can't say that I've noticed this drain happening before. Maybe I should pull the alt and have it tested. It is the original from 1994.

[Screwdriver]

In the same boat, looking for the smallest size (reduces weight) replacement battery that can comfortably handle an air-conditioned SPi. I can hear the change in sound when the heater and headlights are switched on. Lord forbid, I turn the wipers on as well...

[Wiggy]

I could be wrong, but that sounds like the alternator is struggling to keep up.

[brivinci]

Well, my battery was shot so it needed replacing so it was time. Ended up with a Optima Red Top 34 that fits the battery box and has 800 CCA. Haven’t really drive the car much to see if anything’s changed but now that that is sorted, I can look into the alternator.

[brivinci]

To note: that battery fits very nicely within the box, I’m worried about the spare tire fitment. Currently, my spare is a factory alloy with a Yoko A048R mounted. They are a lower profile then the typical 12” tires out there. It fits, but only just. When I rotate my tires, I’ll see if one of A539s will fit.

[Screwdriver]

Any chance we could see a picture of the Optima installed? I've never heard of a gel pack battery in a Mini but if it fits then it may actually be a smart alternative. What did it cost? Warranty duration?

 

Well, my battery was shot so it needed replacing so it was time. Ended up with a Optima Red Top 34 that fits the battery box and has 800 CCA. Haven’t really drive the car much to see if anything’s changed but now that that is sorted, I can look into the alternator.

Edited by Screwdriver, 21 March 2019 - 11:51 PM.

[cooperd70]

I have a A539 on a factory 12" alloy in the spare wheel well and use a Tayna E24 Varta Blue Dynamic Car Battery 12V 70Ah. It 'just' fits into the battery box but everything does fit back into the boot with no issues.

However it is a 1990 carb car though and so not sure if it's suitable for a SPi.

[brivinci]

I can’t stand this site. Always have issues posting pix. Hope this works.

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Edited by brivinci, 23 March 2019 - 02:15 PM.