Optima battery holdown?
 

For an underfloor location, what are you guys using to hold down a 6v Optima? I realize the Optima is a little tall for the stock location. My '35 Fordor's box was already modified for a taller battery. I measured the depth and the Optima will fit, I just need ideas for anchoring it.

Please post photos of how you did it.
Thanks,
Steve

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

I made the last post in that discussion....

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

Steve, on one of my posts on that same thread, my center picture shows the hold down that I used on both projections on the base of the battery. It's pretty simplistic, but works well.

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

Thanks John. I saved your photos. Are the pieces that clamp it down cut curved to match the battery shape?

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

For 1937 Ford, I made my own.

Simple strap with wood; looks like Henry came up with it.

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

Steve, you should do a search for old posts on Optima battery mounting. I know there have been some good threads on that subject, with some good idea's on battery mounting.

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

I have done a search on Optima. There are many discussions on it and the benefits of using one. But not much in the way of photos of actual installation and hold downs. Brattons, Snyders and ithers sell an Optima hold down for model As. I'm a little surprised that no one makes a flathead V8 hold down or kit. I know its not rocket science. I can come up with something, just want to see what others have done.

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

Here is the model A hold down that Brattons sells, and my existing battery hold down. The hold downs are positioned similarly. Brattons' hold down may be usable with some modification. Has anyone tried it?

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

I can't remember if I put a curve on those hold down pieces or not. I could check later today, after I get done doing my wifes "honey do" list :D , but if I didn't do that, it does sound like a good thing to consider doing when going with the type of hold down that I show in my picture.

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

A curved fit would seem to give more grip on it. I'll pull the old battery out this weekend and see how the Optima sits. Since the bottom of the holder appears to have been lowered already, hopefully I just need to secure the Optima in place.

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

I put my Optima battery on the diagonal and went across the top of it from hold down bolt to hold down bolt with 3/8 x 1/14 varnished oak.

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

32Bee emailed these photo showing what he did, so sharing them here.

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attac...7&d=1691774414

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attac...8&d=1691774414

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attac...9&d=1691774414

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

On my '51, I put it in one of those faux cases with a matching top, and of course, the original hold down worked just fine.

Re: Optima battery holdown?
 

My battery box floor had been lowered previously which made it easier. The anchor rods were also positioned front and back. I just boxed in the base around the battery and welded up a new top hold down from scrap angle iton. Its rock solid.