Optima Hold Down Bracket

[Paul Bennett]

For use on 1950 Mercury:

I've just ordered 2 Optima hold down brackets from Mike's Affordable Model A Parts. Total cost including shipping $38. My intention is to modify one bracket to fit the bottom, thus encasing the Optima top and bottom. I will remove the existing battery holder and may be required to fabricate a smaller one for the new Optima.

It strikes me the Optima is half the normal size of a group 2 battery and it would make the engine compartment a lot neater if mounted up against the driver's side air vent box. Should get more space around the engine and brake master cyl.

I considered mounting the Optime in back of the spare tire in the trunk and using very heavy cables between trunk and engine, but then, why create more work, eh?

A second bracket (I ordered 2) may go unused, to early to tell...they are only $12 each so no great loss. I know I'll have to modify one bracket to fit the battery foot. Thinking I can grind half moons in the short dimension and drop that bracket down from the top. I respect the need for purist originality owners to use a 'disguise' box but for me that's wasted space and $.

Incidentally I had heard Optima tried to improve reliability issues at the connection area below the posts by making a slightly taller battery. Perhaps model 9010-044 vs existing 8010-044. But I have had ZERO success in verifying that. Also I've had zero success in purchasing an Optima from ProMotive.com from whom some (Brad from Germany et al) have purchased $90 Optimas. So many hoops started to cry scam to me. I'll stick with Amazon or maybe local.

Comments?