I need a new battery, and prefer to get a low-maintenance, low-mess one.
2006-11-14 14:01:19 · 5 answers · asked by Jon 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Car Makes ➔ Volkswagen
First to those that don't know the battery on a bus is located in the engine compartment, not under the rear seat like other models:
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/archives/manuals/aug66bus/page35.jpg
Anyways, like all ready said above the Optima batteries are great. They can't leak and will give you a lot of cranking power(something nice in cold climates), but like most things if you want the best you have to pay for it and they do cost a good deal more. If you want to save some money just get one from any of the name brand companies out there and they will work fine. As well modern battries for what you need are maint-free and shouldn't spill (but doesn't hurt to be careful so toss a battery mat under it, they're cheap and will take of any acid if it leaks). You can probably find reviews online about what brands are better than others, but honestly you should be fine if you just pick a good quailty name brand.
2006-11-14 16:19:09 · answer #1 · answered by Patrick M 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because battery corrosion is such a problem on the old Bugs and Squarebacks with the batteries under the seat you can get an Optima sealed battery that is totally leakproof and can even turn over and be run without spilling any acid. The dealer for those which are several major auto parts stores can look it up and fit you with the one you need. Simply needs to be able to fit the battery tray under the seat and still have enough amps (which aren't much) to start and run the old VW. If they had had those when those cars were new we wouldn't have so many rust out floor boards would we. :-)
2006-11-14 14:06:17 · answer #2 · answered by mohavedesert 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First year for the 12volt system. A maintenance free battery would be a big improvment over the old ones. Like no more sulfuric acid smell in side the car.
Just make sure the starting amps are matched. And also make sure its not too tall, it can short out on the seat springs.
2006-11-14 14:23:18 · answer #3 · answered by dewhatulike 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
1967 was the first 12v Bug go by the Interstate Battery location near you just keep in mind the metal battery top and strap if not rotted out is there for a reason rear seat springs with some one back there might touch the battery terminals and burn down your little antique
2006-11-14 14:09:37 · answer #4 · answered by John Paul 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well since all batterys are sealed now ( still has caps but are glued on) any battery made for your Vw will work.
Most batterys are sealed now and you cant put water in them any more.
2006-11-14 14:06:24 · answer #5 · answered by goldwing127959 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋