1970 454 Battery Correct NCRS?

[Chris Dransfield]

Where can I find a correct NCRS battery for a 1970 454 big block? What was the factory CCA on these?

[Joe L.]

Re: 1970 454 Battery Correct NCRS?

Chris-----

1970 big blocks used a side terminal Delco battery of R89W. I don't know if this battery is reproduced, or not. Some, but not all, of the side terminal batteries are reproduced and if you can't get this exact one, you may be able to get one that's "close" in terms of configuration, if not exact series designation.

The 2 primary sources of reproduction batteries are Restoration Battery of Cinncinati, OH and New Castle Battery of New Castle, PA. You might check with either of them. If they don't have it, I don't think you'll be able to get it anywhere (except if you happen to find an NOS, dry charged battery and I've seen these sell for $1,000+).

[D S.]

Re: 1970 454 Battery Correct NCRS?

I'm glad you asked that question. I didn't know that they were side terminal batteries. I must have 'looked' at the assembly manual a hundred times and not seen that.

Thanks,
Scott

[Joe L.]

Re: 1970 454 Battery Correct NCRS?

Scott-----

Side terminal batteries were first used in Corvettes very late in the 1969 model year---most 69s used top terminal batteries. Thereafter, side terminal batteries of various configurations and models were used continuously in Corvettes right through the 2004 model. However, it's "back to the future" for 2005 models. They've gone back to top terminal batteries again; the first Corvettes to have them since 1969.

Incidentally, late 1969 Corvettes were the very first cars to EVER receive the top terminal battery that later was phased in across the GM car lines. It never really caught on, though, as far as most other car manufacturers were concerned.

[Joe L.]

Correction

Corvettes went back to top post batteries beginning with the 2004 model year.

[D S.]

Re: Correction

According to Paragon Reproductions the reproduction battery, R-89S, is sold by them for about $230+ including vent caps and hoses and for an extra $20 they can date code it. The battery they sell is 950 cranking amps. Shipping is not included. Shop around though.

Scott

[Chris Dransfield]

Re: Correction

Thanks for the info. I am not sure why I did not see that in their catalogue. I will check with the other two outfits as well.

Thanks guys

[Bob D.]

Re: Correction

Resoration Battery makes an exact copy of the R89W battery that is undetectable from the original. They will even date code the battery for you. They sell the caps also for an extra charge. Not sure what they are charging these days but I paid $185 abotu 4 years ago.

[Tony H.]

Re: 1970 454 Battery Correct NCRS?

Chris,

Check the NCRS Driveline. I believe Restoration Batteries advertises just the battery you need. I think there were two types depending on the VIN number. They still run about $185 for the dry battery with additional options such as vent caps and date coding service offered at an extra charge. You will need to add acid to the dry battery and you can get this at a local truck/tractor battery shop (see the yellow pages).

My experience with their battery was about a 5-6 year life which is not too bad.

Tony