The 3000 Forum

Greetings,
I had recently asked about a replacement battery for my '66 A/H 3000.
I did receive a helpful note from an A/H Experience member regarding
a classic AGM replacement battery vs. simply an AGM replacement.
I would certainly prefer a Lucas reproduction. At this time they are hard
to come by. Any idea where I might find one?
Regards, Bob G.

I'm not sure what 'classic AGM replacement' would be, as AGMs didn't come around until a couple decades ago. BJ8's came with a wooden spacer bolted to the inside of the RR wheel well, the original batteries had a large notch lengthwise on one side to fit the spacer; presumably, this was to fully secure the battery in its place (though I've never had an issue with a battery secured with a couple hold-downs). I cut my spacer lengthwise so I could fit a std. battery--Group 24 is usually recommended--without it protruding too far into the boot and having to use longer hold-downs. In pic1 you can just see the trimmed spacer behind my (AGM) battery, pic2 is the chunk of the spacer I cut to fit a std. battery. Years ago, I tried to find a correct, notched battery but couldn't; the late/great Gary Anderson--of restoration book fame--told me he'd seen them, but I couldn't find any anywhere, though IIRC I did see some photos of one. AFAIK, Lucas--whatever that is these days--does not make repops.

In the 4-cyl/early 6-cyl world the problem is worse; if you want to retain the correct 2x6V configuration the original size--equivalent to 17L--is not to be found. The closest is a 17H--for '17 High'--which barely fits (dangerously) under the cover. One knowledgeable mechanic/restorer went so far as to gut a couple original 17L 'tar tops' and put 6V Optimas inside. Until a few years ago a place called 'Antique Automobile Batteries' made some repops but quality was suspect and they went out of business anyway.

Thanks so much for your help Bob.