THIS is how a battery should be installed: soldered clamps on clean, true terminals (positive covered) with electrical grease applied retained by a long-bolt clamp (6C2Z-10756-A) in the stock tray (6C3Z-10732-AA), after baking soda & acid neutralilzer have been applied. If you can score a factory fitted battery blanket (F6UZ-10A682-AA; 5 1/2'' x 38 3/8'') in perfect condition, even better.

Yes, I have it facing different from factory, but the negative cable is slightly shorter than it used to be.

This is the best battery for the money: MotorCraft BXT-65-850. I've found it ~$140 (during sales around 2013; closer to $180 in 2024) with an 8-year warranty, the first 3 of which are free-replacement. The Optima doesn't come close to that, or the CCA or reserve capacity, and costs MUCH more. This battery is made by Johnson Controls, just like Optima, but this is from the same line as Sears DieHard Gold, Interstate MTP, and a few other high-quality batteries. DuraLast & EverStart are bottom-end JC batteries.

Before buying a craptasmic battery or other common part, check for coupons & service offers from Ford.

. . . . . .

http://www.batteryfaq.org/

Owner caption April 2013 · Photo 4971 of 5000