Looking to replace the battery & cables in my 65 El Camino . Original battery tray was also shot and have replaced it and holdown with original type repo , so I'm after a drop-in { 24 series ? } style . Any suggestions as to a good cold cranking amps { CCA } rated and " maintanence free " style battery to drop in the original location and any preferences as to cable type { original spring type, aftermarket clamp style , or side mount } type ? Went on the Optima site and they list # RED25 { CCA 720 group 250 } OR # RED75/35 { CCA 720 group 75DTO } and thats about all the info I found ? :confused:
Thanks .........

:pout:

I just bought a new battery and cables for mine just today. First question I had was is there a problem with using a more powerful battery. There is not in most circumstances. You also have to watch the height of the battery. Generally side post batteries need to stay that way unless there is enough height. My only concern is the last connection, to the starter. ON a 1980 El Camino, It can be tough to get to. Course, what isn't?

Just wanted to know if their were any issues as when I went to check out the Optima batterys at the local Auto Zone, was told that there "could be " a hood clearance problem. On early Chevelles/ El Caminos there is an * asterik in the Optima catalog listing.Their website makes NO mention of this at all, and in fact says a "height adapter " { comes with the battery } ,is needed for both models I mentioned previously ? :confused: :confused: :confused:
Want a stock size / type maintenance/ spill free battery with good strong cold cranking amps so it will fit in the stock location, and I can use original type battery cables . Seems like trying to keep the car "stock" is more of a hassle than making mods { intake & distributor issues also mentioned in other site threads }.Guess I'll look at other battery brands :sad:

I have a Optima Red Top in my 65. Fits fine.

What is the Optima part number ? Terminals on top or the sides { or both } ? My local Auto Zone store counter people are a joke :(
Thanks ! :beers: