Truck battery

drglinski · #1 12-03-2014, 03:25 PM

I'm going to try to avoid a huge can of worms here, but I realize what I'm opening...

I need a new truck battery for my Chevrolet S 10. It's been hard starting as of late so I had it tested out today. It's giving out only half the CCA that it's supposed to. It's rated at 650 and it's only producing 350. Now granted it's been 11 years since I bought it and I don't think that's bad.

The place quoted me at a few batteries they sell. I'm looking to see and gather feedback on what you guys have, if/why you like them, (manufacturer) and if/if not I should/should not get one.

Currently I have an AC Delco. It's been a great battery for the last 11 years but it's time for a new one me thinks. I'm not sure if I want to keep with brand or go otherwise.

Thanks

ol'George · #2 12-03-2014, 03:36 PM

I've had good luck with Tractor supply, no complaints, always going 7+ years.
just make sure it is fresh, not sitting on the shelf for 6 months!!
I think that is the most important thing.
Now a days no more pro rated, most are free for 20-30 months and then thats it.

bill682 · #3 12-03-2014, 03:47 PM

I think Johnson Controls makes batteries for GM. I get mine from Advance Auto also made by Johnson Controls. You can find really good coupons for Advance Auto and save alot of money. Order online, use your coupon and pickup at store.

http://www.retailmenot.com/view/advanceautoparts.com

Calvins66Cub · #4 12-03-2014, 04:04 PM

Wow! 11 years is pretty good!

Batteries only last about 3-4 years here in Phoenix.
Heat cooks them.

I have had good luck with Interstate.

J-Mech · #5 12-03-2014, 04:47 PM

Here at my shop we probably install around 30 batteries a year or more. We either install Dekka from Napa, or Super Start from O'Reilly's. I've used Interstate quite a bit, but don't have a local dealer anymore. (No, I'm not a dealer.... that's another story) AC Delco makes good batteries. Now, customers get what they want to pay for. I push the the "mid grade" battery usually. You do get what you pay for. All my Cubs have Super Starts in them, my diesel truck has a dry cell Super Start and our van has a Super Start. All that said, I recommend getting one that has a good warranty. (5 Years at least) Brands I'd use without hesitation: AC Delco, Interstate, Dekka, Super Start and that's about it. You may have brands in your area that I don't have access to that are just as good. Spend at least $100 on a battery. That's my rambling advice.

jimbob200521 · #6 12-03-2014, 04:51 PM

I can't for the lift of me remember what brand my battery is but I got it at Farm & Fleet. It cost me about $100. When mine died on me last year, I ran to F&F and snagged this guy whom was on sale at the time so really it's a "more than $100 battery"

IHinIN · #7 12-03-2014, 06:47 PM

I've heard Interstates aren't what they used to be. A couple people have told me they only get about 2-3 years out of them.

darkminion_17 · #8 12-03-2014, 06:58 PM

Mine in the 99 F150 lasted 11 years also, and I replaced it with another motorcraft battery.Still going strong after 5 years.

J-Mech · #9 12-03-2014, 07:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IHinIN

I've heard Interstates aren't what they used to be. A couple people have told me they only get about 2-3 years out of them.

NONE of the batteries are what they used to be. None of them.

This year, all the part stores dropped the 5yr free replacement warranty batteries. All warranties are pro-rated after 18 months now. You just get to decide how long of a pro-rate you want.

64fleetside · #10 12-03-2014, 07:16 PM

NONE of the batteries are what they used to be. None of them

boy is that the truth, I sell Dekas at a small parts store and warranty here went to a 1 yr free replacement about 2 yrs ago, that's it. No other warranty. It gets hot here, oldest I have seen here is 10 yrs on a Yuasa in a Honda and some Dekas show up occasionally that are 7 y/o. 3-4 yrs is pretty normal life span here.