Car battery-A general technical detail discussion

DomoHonda

So, with the cold weather hitting most of the country, I was wondering about batteries. My wagon has a hard time starting in this cold and I was wondering if others had this same problem and what other setups our wagon bretheren are using in cold weather. Optima batteries, batteries with better cold crank,tricks and tips, battery relocation, etc...I hope this isn't in the wrong area, lord forbid.

Charb

I've replaced my battery cables, alternator, and I'm running an Optima yellow top. Starts easy, every time. Even in negative temps.

I replaced the cables and battery last summer. Never had a problem until we got into single digits. My car would idle low and almost die when sitting at a stop. Then one morning when it was like -2* there wasn't enough juice to start her. Replaced the alternator and she got a lot stronger. All my dash lights, headlights, and PIAAs all got brighter.

Glad everything has been replaced. Makes everything easier.

ragenasian

A fresh starter will make a lot of difference too. The older they get the more juice they require. Replaced mine one winter and it did wonders for starting the car in the cold.

DomoHonda

cool, thanks for the tips. This cold front is challenging my battery. Fortunately this weather isn't typical for El Paso. But good idea to get new starter, alternator, and cables anyway for a 20 year old car

Haydz

I find that the factory grounds while good when made, may have had significant wear over the years. Check them and ensure you have good contact.

I replaced all of mine with 32mm cable.

Battery -> Body, Body -> Gearbox, Head -> Body. I even added one between the throttle body and firewall.

503Wagon

i second the replacing, your grounds can never be TOO good.