C1 and C2 Battery Recommendations

[Christopher R.]

I just went to 3 national and 1 regional chain stores looking for a Group 24 battery for my car. Costco doesn't carry them. Pep Boys has AC Delco, but not in the Group 24 size, and all their batteries have handles. Sears has them, but they're ugly. The regional chain has them, but they only carry Exide.

I wanted AC Delco. Even if I could have located one, it seems that all the AC Delcos have that ugly plastic carrying handle and brackets on the sides for the handle. The Sears ones also have the brackets.

Will the C1 hold-down retainer fit over those brackets sticking out the side?

Is there anyone who makes a premium battery without that stupid handle? I know you can cut it off, but you're still left with the 2 brackets on the sides. They're ugly too. I don't mind the cost, but the Optimas are ugly too.

I just want a plain no-handle/no-handle bracket black case modern battery in the Group 24 size. The AC Delco brand would have been nice. Top of the line 3 year replacement would also have been nice too.

Any recommendations? Not willing to do repro tar tops or Optimas.

[Donald L.]

Re: C1 and C2 Battery Recommendations

Chris,
Im using a Costco #207260-Group 58 manufactored by Johnson Controls for my 62.It fits the box and the battery retainer heat shield fits ok. Yeah it has the handle and brackets. It has a 72 month warranty with 2 year free replacement. It is rated at 610 CCA. I replaced it under warranty after 10 months no questions aked. I latter found out it was my generator
that was causing the low battery voltage. The replacement has been in since 1999.
Cost $38.95.

Regards,
Donald #31176

[Ed Jennings]

Re: C1 and C2 Battery Recommendations

The Duralast batteries sold by auto zone are made by Johnson Controls and are excellent batteries. Excellent warranties, also. I just cut the strap off and go about my business. On the 62, the hold down frame covers the brackets anyway.

[Mike E.]

Re: C1 and C2 Battery Recommendations

My Dremel tool is experienced at cutting the brackets off, and the top surround covers that area when the battery is mounted.

[Jack H.]

The 'stupid' handle....

is actually a nice feature when you tug/pull/push a battery in and out of the rear compartment or storage tray.... Remember, you'll take a deduction for a service replacement battery anyway, so what's the big deal about an extra 'feature/function' on the service replacement battery? Plus, as others have said, the handle can be easily removed with an appropriate cut....

[Jerry J.]

Re: The 'stupid' handle....

Just bot AC battery group 24-7YR Thursday from Hastings Auto Parts. $77.95.
Walked in, theyt didn't stock it but said he could get it within the hour.
Ordered it and Picked up.. Handle was nice to carry from store to truck.
Handle just un-clips from battery. Had to charge for 7 hrs. though...
It fits the tray, the hold down fits. etc. etc.
Cranks F.I. over like crazy..Car sat for 1 1/2 mos. but started on third try.
Very Very satisfied. Needed cranking power to build vacuum and pump fuel..
Other places I went to either said they couldn't get or would take at least 7 days..

[John H.]

Re: The 'stupid' handle....

Go to www.acdelco.com , and you'll find a locator for your nearest Delco Service Center or Delco retailer.