Re: [VAC] Vintage couple needs encouragement

[RSmith6368@xxxxxxx]

OK, Gell cells do NOT have to be vented, they ARE 
completely self contained. 

The long narrow batteries you referred to are tractor 
batteries and are actually quite easy to obtain...now the 
problem; you won't likely find one for under $150, plus 
they are not DEEP CYCLE. They are starting batteries. 
They were used as RV house batteries before the common 
advent of the deep cycle battery (the military services 
were the only common users of deep cycle batteries in the 
50s-60s, though there were a few others, notably the 
phone companies.) The tractor batteries were chosen 
because they were large and could discharge for quite 
awhile before dying...but, they STILL don't like to be 
deeply discharged or you will shorten the life span 
dramatically.

From my own exhaustive researh, and my own prior follies, 
I decided about 7 years ago to buy an OPTIMA battery, was 
subsequentally sent overseas in the employ of Uncle Sam 
and had to leave the vehicle in storage for a bit over 
two years. Came home, oiled the cyliders and changed 
spark plugs...and then realised I had not brought the 
battery charger. On a whim, I attempted to start it. With 
a bit of starter fluid sprayed into the aircleaner it 
started right up. It is still in use today. I am now the 
proud owner of 4 Optima deep cycle batteries as well, 
although people think I am nuts when I tell them I paid 
$160 each for them. I'd buy a dozen more if I had a need 
for a very seriously reliable battery bank. Don't look 
for a discount if you wish to buy one though...I've been 
looking for a "sale" since the vehicle starting incident.


your occasionally humble servant,
Ralph