TAR-TOP BATTERIES

[Jim Bienvenu]

I understand that it is becoming impossible to find reproduction tar-top batteries for vintage Corvettes. I need to replace the battery in my 1965 convertible, but can't find a tar-top. If they are no longer manufactured, has anyone heard what the NCRS position will be on this in terms of judging. I believe the usual deduction for having a poly-tar is 7 points, but if a repro tar-top is not available, will a poly-tar be accepted, or at least, will the deduction be reduced to maybe 2-3 points? I would appreciate anyone sharing what they've learned about this. Thanks!
Jim

[Bernard M.]

Re: TAR-TOP BATTERIES

Jim, After just over seven years, my tar top battery recently bit the dust. I tried to find someone locally to rebuild it to no avail. I purchased it in 1995 from Restoration Battery of Cincinnati, OH and it is now my intention to buy another like it. He is still advertising original style reproduction batteries for Corvettes from 1953-1980, including tar tops. He advertises in Driveline. His ad can be found on page 27 of the current issue. Regards, Bernie Myers

[Art B.]

Re: TAR-TOP BATTERIES

Jim:
In addition to Restoration Battery, a company called New Castle Battery Co. also sells reproduction batteries for vintage Corvettes. They advertise extensively in Old Cars Weekly. I recently purchased one for my '57 and it seems to be quite reliable after two years. The previous one I purchased from
Corvette Central lasted only one year.

[Jim Bienvenu]

Re: TAR-TOP BATTERIES

I've already spoken with Restoration Battery (Tom I think) and learned that they no longer have the tar top batteries available. I purchased my first battery from that company. I've never seen a repro battery from New Castle, although I've been told by many members that even though the battery is a tar top, it is not a correct reproduction for my '65. I appreciate the advice, but if what I've learned over the past month is true, a correct tar top will not be available. I have no problem with going to a poly-tar, but I think the NCRS should consider revising guidelines for deductions, since the most correct batteries may no longer be available.

[Art B.]

Re: TAR-TOP BATTERIES

Jim:
I case you want to contact New Castle Battery Mfg. Co., their number is 724-658-5501 (sorry, I could not find a toll free number). I know I have seen their ads featuring correct tar top batteries for your year Corvette.