AC Delco Batteries for C1s and C2s

[Christopher R.]

I'm considering a Group 24 AC Delco battery for my '62. I notice that all the AC Delco Group 24 batteries have handles. Will my stock battery hold-down and "J" bolts work with these batteries? I know many members are using the current AC Delco batteries.

1. Does the handle or its brackets on the sides interfere with the hold down? Will the hold-down straddle the handle and brackets?

2. Even if it does interfere, will the stock "J" bolts still fit? Reason I ask is that I had a very difficult time fitting the repro "J" bolts that I now use on a generic no handle battery. If the handles or brackets raise the hold-down, even ever so slightly, the "J" bolts won't fit.

3. I know people have used Dremel tools or hacksaws to cut off the brackets and remove the handle. I might do that. But right now I'm thinking that I'll keep the handle because the handle will make it easier to install the battery. Over the years, I've installed enough batteries in this car to know how, and I still dread doing it.

[Tom P.]

Re: AC Delco Batteries for C1s and C2s

It depends on the battery (some batteries are NOT made by the brand that's on the battery).
On the batteries (Interstate) that I've been using with handles, I remove the handle and cut off the loop from the side of the battery case for the handle (trim it nice and smooth), and it fits fine.

[Jim T.]

Re: AC Delco Batteries for C1s and C2s

Chris I just bought a AC Delco 75-7YR Professional battery. It has free replacement for 50 months. The longer warranty and higher CCA (700) is what really helped me decide to go with an AC Delco even though they are no longer in the battery manufacturing business. I was told another brand of battery dealer that Johnson Controls makes the Delco as well as Interstate, just different specifications.
The battery handle is real easy to remove. The tabs that retain the handle when it is pulled up can be held back by a screwdriver so they don't catch and the handle comes off. Don't need the handle to install a battery in a C4 with having to remove part of the car to slide it on the battery tray.