I recently replaced the factory stock battery on my 96 4runner with an Optima Blue Top. The new battery is a lot smaller than the one it was replacing and I've noticed that there is a TON of play in the OEM battery tie-down system. Even with the nut screwed down all the way it doesn't even come close to holding the new Optima battery in place. Are there any manufacturers that make an aftermarket tray that would hold an Optima comfortably?
Aftermarket battery tray
- Thread starter McDeth
- Start date
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Pikeman
New member
yes there are a few. Camburg $99, Blue torch Fab $59, and Ballistic Fab $45. I ran a Blue Torch Fab(BTF) box in a 85 Runner and currently running the Ballistic Fab box in my 98. Ballistic Battery Boxes
Martinjmpr
New member
That's odd, I had exactly the opposite problem: When I replaced my battery the new one was about 3/4" taller than the old one so the battery clamp wouldn't fit. I resolved it by getting a longer screw for the front part of the clamp and then "shimming" it with about 6 washers. Now it works great.
If you're problem is just height, why not just set the battery on a peice of wood or plastic cut out to the shape of the battery? Should shim it up just fine.
Pikeman
New member
Shims work great if you don't off-road a lot. Some people may wheel a lot and never have a problem with shims either. I broke two factory hold-downs prior to installing the Optima battery box. Now I know that there is no way for it to move and possibly arc against the body. I figure if I spent $150 on a battery then a $40 investment to hold it down isn't a bad idea.
TheDurk
Elite Member
That "lid" is actually DESIGNED to work as a spacer. Just move it from the top to the bottom. I really don't see how anything needs to be more secure than that. Mine has been that way since 2006.
I just feel sorry for anyone with a 'Made in Mexico' Optima battery. The reliability has apparently gone way downhill.
I just feel sorry for anyone with a 'Made in Mexico' Optima battery. The reliability has apparently gone way downhill.
Pikeman
New member
I agree- The Lid is designed to be used as a spacer to help the battery fit most applications. I also said some people don't have any issues with it holding or working for them. I have been on the trail and had someone with a popular Shim the factory bracket mod get loose and arc against the body killing the battery and frying a few components on his truck. I have read of this happening a few places also, and I personally have had two factory brackets break on me. That is why I made the choice to be "more secure than that". I could not justify the $100 Camburg option but could do the $40 option.
