FStanley

OK over a year later and working just fine. One thing I do is that on initial start I jump this battery and get the engine going.. Not to put to much strain on this new battery.

I usually go to cars and coffee and not gone too long. Engine still might be a bit warm yet, all I know is a couple pumps and WAHMO right up and running again and home and back on the trickle charger.. We'll see how it goes. but I don't expect this to last 20 years..as original R71S was 850 CA and this battery is 440 CCA.
Fred

FStanley

Way easier time taking the top off but cutting it and removing a diiferent type battery inside of unknow origin.. , but what was his solution to make a working battery again??? Don't know yet.....

71 OLDS

I did something similar on my 71 442. The actual Optima battery is relocated to the trunk and it's just a fake shell in the stock location with a few electrical items hidden inside:



Sorry entire car is covered in dust during paint and body work but this is the best pic that shows the shell: