mmmmmm ... no (archive)

For everyone's information, I was told by the local BMW service mgr. that the Optima battery has a very high cranking amperage and might not be suitable for the 850.

Hmmm .. I'm having a hard time with that one. What the service manager is saying, essentially, is that the starter motor is not designed to handle a better voltage source than the 850i's lead-acid batteries. I'll skip the detailed analysis on why this is makes no sense and just pose the question - does the 850 permit jump-starts? Of course it does. Ever seen the battery complement on your typical diesel wrecker? Several paralleled batteries with FAR more current capability than the Optima battery. More cranking current from the Optima? Thanks, I'll take all I can get.

Personally, I'm suprised the major battery manufacturers aren't jumping into the automotive market with starved-electrolyte designs (like the Optima). They're more expensive, sure, but they last far longer, use 90% less sulfuric acid, weigh less, can be stored and used in any orientation, are less susceptable to vibration-induced failure, better cold performance, don't outgas ... on and on. I have some Gates X-cells that are 15 years old which still work perfectly. Amazingly good products.

Scott

Follow Ups:

Hi Scott, so Optima will work in 850 ?? Kurt.G 15:41 4/24/2001 (2)
- Yes, if you can find the right size .. Scott 18:10 4/24/2001 (1)
  - Thanks, measure to match close size I guess :-) Kurt.G 19:11 4/24/2001 (0)

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