aftermarket battery tie down method

[savage217]

I just bought a ltw odyssey battery that i was going to swap in for track use only. Since it is smaller I need to secure it in a different fashion than the stock mounting hardware. Could I potentially use a ratcheting tie down strap? I don't see how this would not be secure enough. The battery is not very heavy. Please let me know if this would pass tech. Thanks.

[jeffw]

Speaking for myself (and from reading clubs requirements), I think you want a metal to metal securement.

[savage217]

That makes things annoying. Thanks for the info Jeff. Can any steward please comment?

[Chrispy]

How about one of those perforated metal straps? Easy to cut to size and screw in to something secure.

[breakaway500]

If the battery is firmly secured by a strong strap,and the battery tray is fully supportive,I don't see any problem. Some cars come from the factory with no more than a braided strap for retention,and many use only plastic retainers. I'm not suggesting a bungie cord would be sufficient,but I don't see any reason the hold down material has to be metallic.The rules merely state the battery must be securely mounted and does not specify a material:

D. Engine Compartment
1. Engine compartment will be clean with no oil, water, or gas leaks. Hoses, lines, wiring and belts must be in good
condition and securely mounted. The battery must be securely mounted. Exhaust system must be firmly mounted.

[wizzman]

I used a 4X4 deck post bracket from Lowes to bolt down my baby battery. It fits my battery perfectly thought not sure what size Odyssey you have.

[savage217]

I have the PC 545

http://www.odysseybatteries.com/battery/pc545.htm

Any pictures of your setup?

Battery specs:

Length 6 7/8"
Width 3 1/4"
Height 5 1/8"
Weight 11.7 lbs

[6PAK72]

Construction adhesive?

[breakaway500]

^ You laugh..but the things I have seen people do over the years... I remember a 1973 Olds Cutlass 350 with a belt squeal.The customer said the belt "tensioner" was weak. ??? On opening the hood,I found a rubber ball wedged between the alternator and the water pump was all that kept any pressure on the belt. The proper top adjusting bracket was long gone. Wonder who thought that was a good idea? I have also seen panty hose used to secure a battery....that def won't pass tech..

[wizzman]

Any pictures of your setup?

Looks like your battery is pretty close to the size of the one I am using. Here is the bracket:

[breakaway500]

^ I would secure/brace the base of that battery better; if it shifts or slides to the side (due to impact,vibration etc) that metal retainer is going to short out on the positive battery post..

[nateh]

Which will produce entertaining results. We have had a couple of examples at COM events this year.

[CP]

How about a block of wood on top of the smaller battery to take up the space usually occupied by the larger unit?

[savage217]

Nate,

I know you are a steward. What is the rule? Does it just have to pass the "wiggle" test? If it is reasonably secure what is the rule?

[nateh]

"The battery must be securely mounted." and "Battery must be firmly secured."

If it's questionable, the person making the inspection will call in other Scrutineers for discussion.