Battery type for Classic

[gizard]

Is there any reason for having a conventional lead acid battery for a classic car (1938 2 seater sports) other than looks? Anything wrong with using a modern Gel battery?

[aeropilot]

No.

Looks only, if originality is a high priority, otherwise, modern gel type is the way to go.

[Cliftonite]

I believe it is possible to purchase a battery in an old-style casing, but with modern innards. The best of both worlds!

[crankedup]

Always purchased my classic batteries from Lincoln Batteries, Leigh on Sea, Essex. They manufacture.

[TooMany2cvs]

<something stirs in back of brain>
Don't gel batteries require a higher charging voltage?

[aeropilot]

TooMany2cvs said:

<something stirs in back of brain>
Don't gel batteries require a higher charging voltage?

Possibly.......
If not converted to alternator as well, then I probably wouldn't go modern gel, but depends on how far the conversion to 12v has already been done...?

[gizard]

aeropilot said:

Possibly.......
If not converted to alternator as well, then I probably wouldn't go modern gel, but depends on how far the conversion to 12v has already been done...?

Ahh that makes sense I will ask the lot that did the nut and bolt restore - I suspect it has an original re wired setup - ie gen and starter....

thanks for the pointers

[Old Merc]

Cliftonite said:

I believe it is possible to purchase a battery in an old-style casing, but with modern innards. The best of both worlds!

Something like this ? https://www.shieldbatteries.co.uk/applications/cla...

You can get anything for a classic these days.......at a cost? Original appearance is very important especially very old vintage stuff. I saw a Model T, inside "the old dynamo" was a modern alternator and the wicker picnic hamper on the running board was full of electronics.

[Vintage Racer]

Here's my TR3A modern battery with a 'stick-on' 'Lucas' badge on the front and false panel on top.........It's fooled everyone for many years!

216-New battery &amp; Control box by Glynn Hobbs, on Flickr

[lowdrag]

I've had a gel battery on the XKSS since I bought it in 2002, and it had it then so I have no idea how old it it was. I had to change it a year back, and have a cut-out switch I use for the winter, but have never needed to charge it.