new battery

[nick350]

which one of these is best for a 280 do you think? It's for a snappy start.


http://www.batterymegastore.co.uk/cgi-bin/megastore/commerce.cgi?product=Batteries_Vintage_Vehicles!12_Volt


OR


http://www.fourleafbatteries.co.uk/index.php


I've ordered the Optima RT S 4.2R with the terminals on the correct side and expect it tomorrow. I'll let you know how I get on.

[Naj ✝︎]

For a daily driver my choice would be a Bosch or Varta of the right size and aH rating. Try EuroCarParts of GSF (German Swedish & French) Car Parts.
Much cheaper!
naj

68 280SL

[al_lieffring]

All 3 of the batteries shown in that link have the + and - posts backwards for instalation in a pagoda. The USA designation of the battery type I always install is a group 24F battery.

A hard rubber case battery might be an authentic reproduction of what was available in 1970 but they are notorious for leaking acid and the thicker walls makes the internal plates smaller, Giving them a much lower amp-hour rating for the same size battery of modern construction.

I would only consider an antique style battery for show use, and use a modern battery for actial driving and would never leave a rubber case battery installed in the car when it was in storage.


Al Lieffring
66 230SL

[Chad]

I havent seen the rubber batteries in a long time.  It is good to see them available.

1967 230SL

[nick350]

I know that it was driving in traffic all evening with the lights, blower, radio and wipers on that have finally tired out my old battery so, I've ordered the Optima RT S 4.2R with the terminals on the correct side and expect it tomorrow. I'll let you know how I get on.

[Naj ✝︎]

quote:Originally posted by nick350

I know that it was driving in traffic all evening with the lights, blower, radio and wipers on that have finally tired out my old battery so, I've ordered the Optima RT S 4.2R with the terminals on the correct side and expect it tomorrow. I'll let you know how I get on.

What alternator does your car have? 35a or 55a?

naj

68 280SL

[graphic66]

The batteries I have used, that claimed to fit, never fit very good at all. I took the tray and top to the store and ended up getting an Energizer part# e36R with 810 cranking amps and 650 CCA. This is not for everyone, because you must grind off one of the plastic mounting lips on the front bottom edge of the battery to fit the tray. If you do that it fits perfect, the top holddown fits perfect and the posts are correct. The battery was only $52.00 at Sams Club, thats the best part. It also looks great, just grind off the front lip so the exposed bottom back is clean.

[Bob G ✝︎]

I had an interstate Mega battery in my 280SL because of none use it went flat . I trickle charged it anf got it goingto run the 280SL to long beach home, but the next day it was history. I called tripple A and with there help I found the right group size and a warrenty that covers on road assistance and replacment. It also  cost me less than a new megatron or sears and the batttery top fits perfect. I am a happy camper.
Bob Geco

[Raymond]

I'm with Al, stay away from the rubber case batteries.  If you want reliable starting even if you don't drive the car often, get an Optima.   Alternately, get a Battery Tender.  If you drive regularly, and don't want to pony up the cash for an optima, there are many good lead-acid batteries. I don't know what brands are available to you in the UK. Look for cranking amps and fit.  

My experience with Varta, both in my car and in my professional equipment, has put me off of them.

Ray
'68 280SL 4-spd Coupe

[hauser]

The ultimate look would be to find a period correct battery's shell to cover up an Optima battery.

1969 280sl 5 spd
Gainesville, Fl.