Battery question

[silverback mike]

Hello chaps.
As above really. I've fitted an uprated starter as the chimaera had issues starting when warm (I bought a hot start kit, had an auto electrician come to fit it, he was used to working on tvrs too, he discovered I probably have a 'different' loom than all others he has seen and as such the mod wise kit was unable to be fitted) anyway back on track my battery is cap, I need a decent bit of oomph when it starts. Will any 096 work? Currently has an 072 if I recall. Oh and it's a boggy 4.0 chimaera 1994. Previously a right old show queen....
Thanks in advance chaps.

[ukdj]

Probably not, you need to check 3 things, assuming you are replacing like for like rather than getting into superlite/small racing & gel/Li-Ion batteries

1) Physical dimensions - will it fit in the battery box?

2) CCA - cold cranking amps (higher number is better)

3) Post type & orientation (make sure they are the correct type & the correct way round for ease of fitting)

Average 072 battery is 550-650 CCA 266L x 175W x 220H but do double check your battery/box size to be sure


TIP - mark the location of the battery box at the corners on the floor with some masking tape before removing the bolts, this will make alignment much simpler when refitting.

[chimp427]

Its worth checking the cable to the starter too, its not worth upping the battery just for the sake of it when the cable cant handle the amperage.

[Grey Ghost]

I put a Bosch 096 in my '98 450 about 8 weeks ago, perfect fit in battery box and cranks like a loony

This one to be exact:

http://www.eurocarparts.com/ecp/c/TVR_Chimaera_4.5...

Also, as mentioned above, check cable gauges on ignition circuit. I have also just had a new alarm and immobiliser system fitted by Carl Baker and he replaced both cables to the correct gauge as one was not up to the job any more.

[silverback mike]

Thanks folks. Ghost that looks just the job. Eurocarparts for me tomorrow ☺

[Smokey Boyer]

As already stated check the size of your battery box before you buy and do not assume that the 096 and 072 batteries will fit. I think the battery box on later cars is bigger.

My 94 plate car has a battery box that will only take an 027 type battery, and these are smaller than the 072 / 096 battery.

The highest spec CCA battery I could find to fit was the Exide Premium 64Ah 640CCA 12v Type 027 - EA640

[silverback mike]

Good point. I'll whip the old one out and compare I think

[mickh32]

Also consider fitting a universal battery tray. Simply fit with 2 bolts through the floor and use a short ratchet strap to secure battery. No more fighting to get the battery in and out and easier to fit jump leads if it goes flat.

[mk1fan]

chimp427 said:

Its worth checking the cable to the starter too, its not worth upping the battery just for the sake of it when the cable cant handle the amperage.

This. Needs to be 25mm2 cable as a minimum although bigger would be better.

[Sardonicus]

You want to be checking the grounds too (can't have enough of them) no good getting power to the starter if it can't return , I would always recommend a ground from the Batt - straight to the engine block anyways.