Time for a battery in the save money car 2003 Saturn Ion. (yeah I can hear the laughter) The delco in it just failed and is exactly 8 years old. Impressive. Going to go with a third Interstate Battery again that I use in the truck and wagon. Service has been a slug but it will get approached again this week
First question was if the 78 series battery (800 CCA) will fit the car. It has a 75 series now the delco that is 600 CCA. The equivalent interstate is either 700 or 750 I think 700. Id like to use the 78 series but it was not answered if it would fit, asked twice.
Took the 75 out put a 78 I had around in and it fits fine width wise even though wider. The metal hold down will not work but I will cut it and weld a piece on to make it longer.
Next this 78 has top and side terminals and the battery height clearance is fine other than the terminals that I dont need are too tall. I could cut them off. On the buick I like them as i hook up my trailer brakes to them here they stop the trunk thing you lift up from sitting flat so they are too tall.
Next thing I notice is the 75 has a vent tube, I guess being in the trunk so the interior they vent the batter with two small hole things on each side. This is not on the 78 series so I wonder if the venting is even needed. If I get another 75 series rather than the large one im not sure if its a special battery to have those vents or the 78 series are sealed and even in the trunk (interior) it is fine.
I called Elon but hes not returning my calls.
Any smarts appreciated ill get on it again tomorrow. i can take a few photos later.
thanks