Group 31 Northstar X2 Battery Install

[cyclist]

There have been a couple different threads on here regarding batteries. I decided to go a different route, and install a Northstar (Batteries Plus X2 Branded) Group 31 in the stock 5th gen location. My install differs from other ones because I extended the cables (using commercially available parts). This was due to the terminals on the Northstar being closer to the front of the truck compared to the Odyssey/Diehard. Plus if you need replacement in the field, you may be SOL.

You can see my write up here.

 

[svana]

I'm working on a dual battery setup myself and was thinking about committing to these batteries. Was looking at doing it last year with the DHP's, but looks like these are much more available. FWIW I spoke with the northstar guys and they mentioned that their marine and regular batteries are identical except the terminals.

 

[cyclist]

That's correct. If you get the Stud only version, you get an extra year warranty (60 months vs 48) at Batteries Plus. I elected to go this route over the group buy due to franchises being all over the US, which means easy of warranty replacement.

I'm working on a dual battery setup myself and was thinking about committing to these batteries. Was looking at doing it last year with the DHP's, but looks like these are much more available. FWIW I spoke with the northstar guys and they mentioned that their marine and regular batteries are identical except the terminals.

 

[Forest RnR]

Great write-up thanks!

 

[chazzi]

Thanks for the write up! I'm trying to do the installation ,but I'm stuck trying to figure out step 3. How are you tightening the nut without being able to access them? I tried reading about how other people install trays ,but I must be missing something...

 

[nglayton]

Thanks for the write up! I'm trying to do the installation ,but I'm stuck trying to figure out step 3. How are you tightening the nut without being able to access them? I tried reading about how other people install trays ,but I must be missing something...

I didn't see his write up, but I after I saw your question, I pulled it up. It's missing a few pics now and a few of the amazon links are no longer good.

It looks like I used the same tray (different source, $10.11).

Step 3? I'm not sure what your asking, why can't you access them to tighten them? With that battery out, they are right there.

Personally, I just drilled a couple more holes in the tray or at least widened the slots, painted the bare metal and called it good. I didn't even try his finesse method of getting it to all line up. Next time I replace the battery, if needed, I'll clean up any rust or whatever and repaint. Heck, for $10 I'll just buy another tray and repeat the install.

 

[chazzi]

Let me see if I can clarify. So I am able loosely put the nut in place and slip the tray ontop,but once that is all on I can't hold the nut in place.. it just spins freely if I tighten the bolt, I need a way to hold onto the nut and tighten the bolt.

I'm sure it's something simple and I'm going to feel like an idiot once I figure it out.