Would have a 1969 442 came with a R59 battery when new? If not, does anyone know what it would have been? Thanks everyone!

 

I am fairly certain this would of had a 24 series top post battery. I believe the R59 is the one.. Side post were out in 1971

 

I did extensive research on batteries to write a two-part article for Journey With Olds magazine in 2022. I realize you have a 442, but here is the fitment information for top-terminal Energizers throughout the entire Cutlass lineup...

· Models from later 1966 through 1971 with I-6 engines used the Y-55 battery (9½ x 6.81 x 9½” tall), rated at 2350 watts and 275 CCA

· Later 1966 through 1971 models with 330 and 350 V8s but without the HD battery or the HD starting motor used the R-59 battery, rated at 2900 watts and 335 CCA.

· From later 1966 through 1969, models with 400 V8s, or with the HD battery or the HD starting motor, used the R-69 battery (same footprint as R-59 but ¾” taller) rated at 3150 watts and 380 CCA. (The 1966 W30 used the R-69 battery.)

· 1968 and 1969 Hurst/Olds used the more powerful R-71S battery (1¾” longer than the R59).

· 1970 Olds 455s, or those with option T60 (HD battery), used the R-71S battery.

· 1971 Olds 455s or those with the HD battery used the R-7 1.

 

Thank you very much!!!!

 

Here is the source for the R-69 battery decal. I do not think the battery is reproduced. You can use a R-59 topper and overlay the R-69 sticker.

Battery Top (R-69 Decal) – StageWonRestoration.com & DieCastMuscleCars.com

 

I ordered it today. Thanks

 

In all my years of owning factory installed batteries and service replacement batteries I have never seen this decal on any of these batteries.