dream4

I need to replace my 02 996 OEM battery , and have been reading all of the great posts regarding the Optima 34R with DIY plates. I was about to order one, but a local car audio specialist told me that they have had nothing but trouble with them. Four of their customers have had cracked cases (spilled gel causing damage) and apparently there is no manufacturers warranty. They are recommending the Orbital 34XCD instead.

Has anyone had trouble with their Optima?
Has anyone had experience with the Orbital?

Thanks,

Mike

Dale Gribble

While i havn't personally heard of any problems with the Optima, might i present Braille Development batteries as a possible alternative. I have sold a few of these already and no one has come back with problems. They weigh about 10-11lbs which represents a not unsubstantial savings from a stock battery.

here is some more info for you:

Braille Auto Development No-Weight Racing Battery
SKU: B14115

It is no secret that the lightest car retains the advantage in virtually any motorsports competition because the lightest car accelerates quicker, apexes faster, and stops shorter than its competition. That is why automotive enthusiasts continue to run the Braille B14115 No-Weight Battery in their vehicles.

Tipping the scales at a mere 11.5 lbs, this battery sheds 25 pounds or more off the front end of most vehicles. This results in a lower center of gravity and improved handling, especially when installed in conjunction with other proprietary lightweight parts engineered by Braille.

Not only is the Braille No-Weight Battery the only lightweight battery designed specifically for automotive use, but its also backed by Braille’s 1 year limited warranty. With all that, it’s no surprise that Braille batteries appear under the hoods of motorsports' top contenders.

Braille translates into Performance You Can Feel!

B14115 Specifications:

Size 5.80 x 3.32 x 5.88
Weight in lbs 11.5
Service Life 3-5 yrs
B14115 Cranking Amp Tests:

PCA 5 sec 904
PCA 10 sec 791
PCA 20 sec 698
HCA 585
CA 486
CCA 360

The_Phantom

Optimas are great. I have one that has lasted much longer in my 944 than other batteries did. I've never had a Braille battery, but they look good too.

porschedog

I have Optima batteries in my boat and they are amazing. No outgassing, no spilling, no need to refill them. If they survive the abuse of a "life at sea" I imagine they'll do well in a P-car. The Optimas I have seen have all fared well in boats, FWIW.

I will be installing one in my daily driver shortly - it's a 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland (H.O. engine, K&H cold air induction) because I need a tow vehicle to drag the boat around. The wife has my old toy - a 1989 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, recently restored ($$ouch), but I OBSESS over a 996, Hence the "porschedog" handle.

BTW, I am shopping for a "clean" reasonably priced 996 (2002 - 2003). I know that's right up there with finding out that your wife's girlfriend is Heidi Klum and they will let you watch, but I am optimistic (about the car - Heidi is a No Go).

Thank you all for the great threads that are keeping me going until the day I blow all the funds in the P-car account and bring my new babay home.

Rob in WA

I have an Optima in my Pcar and in two of our boats, I've been very happy w/them. It saves 13lbs over the Porsche OEM battery.