Can I get a stronger battery?
05-02-2009, 07:48 PM
#1
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Can I get a stronger battery?
Hey guys. My car is finally running like a dream. I mean, it's idling perfectly, I can use my A/C and it just won't overheat even in the worst traffic but as usual, things could not stay this way for a long time. My battery decided to let me know it's about to call it a day. Voltage is dropping and the other day I had to refill the water.
I notice that with the extra load of the new fans and the A/C working all the time the voltage is dropping to low numbers (in the 11 volts range when I'm driving at night).
So, here's my question: can I buy one with more capacity? Would there be any downside to doing so?
Thanks
I notice that with the extra load of the new fans and the A/C working all the time the voltage is dropping to low numbers (in the 11 volts range when I'm driving at night).
So, here's my question: can I buy one with more capacity? Would there be any downside to doing so?
Thanks
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05-02-2009, 08:01 PM
#3
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I don't know how you guys measure the batteries there but here; my current one is a 9/12 and what I'm asking is whether I could put in a 11/12 without any issues?
Thanks
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05-02-2009, 08:11 PM
#4
I'm pretty sure this is the one I have in my car, not positive, I'll have to go look after work.
Optima Red Top 34R-1050 Battery
Optima Red Top 34R-1050 Battery
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05-02-2009, 09:36 PM
#5
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I just put in an Optima 34/78 in my NB and it fits just fine. It is about the same height as the stock battery but has about twice the CCA. You can still use the stock battery clamp with some minor modifications.
No downside that I can think of, other than the cost. Optimas are not cheap but shop around.
No downside that I can think of, other than the cost. Optimas are not cheap but shop around.
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05-03-2009, 01:41 AM
#7
Here's a pic of mine, model number 75-25 all I had to change was the top metal piece, I made it from one of those brackets you use in a pegboard. I used some rubber sheets with some "greatstuff" sandwiched between it to keep it from sliding around
Not the prettiest thing out there, but who cares?
Here are some specs on the battery:
Not the prettiest thing out there, but who cares?
Here are some specs on the battery:
- 910 Cranking Amps
- 720 Cold Cranking Amps
- 90 Minute Reserve
- 44 AH
- 9.4" Length x 6.8" Width x 7.6" Heigth
- Approx. 33 lbs.
- Notes: Non-Deep Cycle Battery, Standard Auto Posts On Top with GM Side Terminals, Comes with Carrying Strap, Excellent Starting Battery for Cars and Trucks
- Factory Warranty: 36 Months
Last edited by nicacus; 05-03-2009 at 01:43 AM. Reason: more info
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05-03-2009, 07:58 AM
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And about the alternator; I don't think that's the issue in my case. I think it has to do with the electrical wiring job they did locally while placing the different sensors.
Local electricians just suck.
Nicasus; thanks for the info and pics
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12-08-2009, 10:45 AM
#10
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I just put in an Optima 34/78 in my NB and it fits just fine. It is about the same height as the stock battery but has about twice the CCA. You can still use the stock battery clamp with some minor modifications.
No downside that I can think of, other than the cost. Optimas are not cheap but shop around.
No downside that I can think of, other than the cost. Optimas are not cheap but shop around.
ZX, that 34/78 is bigger than the D35 right? Looking for one of those for my NB and wanted to see how you got the bigger one to fit.
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12-08-2009, 12:49 PM
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Actually, I'm not so sure that your alternator needs to be upgraded, simply repaired. A stock Miata alternator, in good condition, ought to be able to produce >13v with all of the stock accessories running. Yes, I know you've got some aftermarket fans, but they shouldn't be drawing the system down to 11v.
In every town, there is one old man who has been rebuilding starters and alternators since WWII. He has a small shop in an older neighborhood with a hand-painted sign. Find this man, and see if he can restore your alternator to health.
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12-08-2009, 01:02 PM
#17
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Oh, Rafa you have an NA don't you? NA alternators are very low output, though automatics have greater output alts than manuals. The FD RX7 alternator should also bolt up and be an upgrade.
Or do what Joe advises, which is to get the original rebuilt and rewound. There are people who do that; I've had it done on old GM cars multiple times.
Or do what Joe advises, which is to get the original rebuilt and rewound. There are people who do that; I've had it done on old GM cars multiple times.
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12-08-2009, 01:12 PM
#18
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+1 on what Joe said though. If you have voltage problems while cruising then it is an alternator issue, unless your battery is really screwed up and pulling power somehow, but I doubt it.
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