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Joined: Aug 2011
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Backyard Mechanic
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OP
Backyard Mechanic
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I've searched a few websites for them. The company in Ohio (Antique Auto Batteries) no longer stocks a correct battery for my 1960 Corvair. They say it takes a series 557. Anyone have any other suggestions? I know you can get fake covers for newer batteries to make them look vintage but I'm looking for the correct dimensions of a battery. The '60 Corvair has an unusual mounting location then the '61-'64 Corvair, and unless the battery is lower in height it will hit the engine lid.
Any suggestions would be appreciated. My Corvair is un-restored and would look great with a vintage looking battery.
Ed Bittman VCCA#47508 TA#99 Dade City,Fl
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Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 439
Backyard Mechanic
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Backyard Mechanic
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Ed, You can try Clark's. Click HERE
Regards,
Jim M.
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Joined: Aug 2011
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Backyard Mechanic
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OP
Backyard Mechanic
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Jim, thanks for the reply. I checked with them about two months ago and they were sure when they would have more. I'll keep trying. Ed
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 418
Backyard Mechanic
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Backyard Mechanic
Joined: Jan 2006
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Ed, I had a similar problem years ago when I was restoring a '72 911, which uses dual batteries, tucked into the wheel wells. I found a great solution at Sams Club believe it or not. Just took my tape measure and started measuring the batteries that they stocked. Found a perfect match at half the price than what Porsche suppliers were asking. Typically, German autos use a battery with a shorter height than American stuff. Just a thought for you.
Bob
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Joined: Jul 2008
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ChatMaster - 1,500
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ChatMaster - 1,500
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ACDelco still offers a 557A, 1980705 battery. You may be able to find one at a local ACDelco Distributor.
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Joined: Jul 2008
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ChatMaster - 1,500
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ChatMaster - 1,500
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Just noticed you asked about dimensions, the ACDelco 557a is;
13.0 L, 4.8 W, 8.2 H hope that helps, it won't look like the Delco of 1960 but might get you going.
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Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 222
Backyard Mechanic
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OP
Backyard Mechanic
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An update on my search for an original looking battery for my 60 Corvair. I found one with the right dimensions at Batteries Plus. Also found one at our local Chevy dealer although the parts guy had a good laugh when I mentioned Corvair. I have a buddy who has a couple of NOS ones and he's willing to part with one. Don't know if I want to fool with battery problems down the road with these rejuvenated NOS ones.
Thanks to everyone who responded you have been a great help. Ed VCCA #47508 Dade City,Fl
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Joined: Dec 2001
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Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
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Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
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Hi corvaired, Don't know if I want to fool with battery problems down the road with these rejuvenated NOS ones. I don't understand this comment, could you elaborate?  
RAY Chevradioman http://www.vccacolumbiariverregion.org/1925 Superior K Roadster 1928 Convertible, Sport, Cabriolet 1933 Eagle, Coupe 1941 Master Deluxe 5-Passenger Coupe 1950 Styleline Deluxe 4-Door Sedan 1950 Styleline Deluxe Convertible 2002 Pontiac, Montana, Passenger Van 2014 Impala, 4-Door Sedan, White Diamond, LTZ 2017 Silverado, Double Cab, Z71, 4X4, White, Standard Bed, LTZ If you need a shoulder to cry on, pull off to the side of the road. Death is the number 1 killer in the world.
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Joined: Aug 2011
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Backyard Mechanic
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Backyard Mechanic
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Antique Mechanic,
What I meant was this is an NOS battery from the early 60's. I would have acid added and charge it but will it hold a charge? The last thing I want is a dead battery at a cruise or show. You have no idea what might be wrong inside the battery.Ed in Fla
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Joined: Dec 2001
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Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
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Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
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Is this a dry-charged battery? Good question, how long will a battery last that is dry-charged?
RAY Chevradioman http://www.vccacolumbiariverregion.org/1925 Superior K Roadster 1928 Convertible, Sport, Cabriolet 1933 Eagle, Coupe 1941 Master Deluxe 5-Passenger Coupe 1950 Styleline Deluxe 4-Door Sedan 1950 Styleline Deluxe Convertible 2002 Pontiac, Montana, Passenger Van 2014 Impala, 4-Door Sedan, White Diamond, LTZ 2017 Silverado, Double Cab, Z71, 4X4, White, Standard Bed, LTZ If you need a shoulder to cry on, pull off to the side of the road. Death is the number 1 killer in the world.
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Joined: Aug 2004
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ChatMaster - 3,000
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ChatMaster - 3,000
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I found some NOS dry charge 6 volt Delco batteries. I added the acid and used them but they did not last very long. They were probably from the 1970s.
Mike
ml.russell1936@gmail.com
Many miles of happy motoring
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Joined: Jul 2008
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ChatMaster - 1,500
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ChatMaster - 1,500
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A dry charged battery can last a long time depending on how it is stored. Some of the Delco's came with a wax seal in each cell opening which you removed to fill the battery the first time. With that type you have a better chance. The ones that are open and subject to humidity and other contamination would not be my first choice. In any case the best bet for dependability is a new battery. Put the old one in at the show.
Good luck
Dave
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Joined: Jan 2002
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ChatMaster - 25,000
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ChatMaster - 25,000
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I had the same problem years back. Picked up a dated dry charge and it never realy held much of a charge.
The Delcos I remember (and filled tons of them) came with like pipe cleaners stuck in the cap vent holes.
Gene Schneider
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Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 70
Shade Tree Mechanic
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Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 70 |
I have a correct appearance battery (hollowed out) in the engine compartment and an Optima in the trunk behind some vintage luggage. The one under the hood was from Antique Auto Battery in Ohio and only lasted 3 years.
After draining the water from it and letting it sit with the caps off for a few weeks I cut the bottom out of it and cleaned everything including the old plates out of it.
I then installed it and hooked up the cables just as before. From all outward appearance the car is operating on the dummy battery. It can even be jump started from the dummy battery. I used #1 welding cable run under the car to bring the power cable to the starter solenoid and the ground cable right to a starter bolt. It has served me well for several years now. I keep a Battery Tender in the trunk and keep it plugged in when not in use.
Last edited by Bill48; 04/15/14 07:37 PM.
Bill
1950 Plymouth Club Coupe
Life is great. I have been blessed with a wife that loves old cars as much as I do.
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Joined: Jul 2005
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ChatMaster - 3,000
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Cool idea Bill, especially cutting the bottom off the battery , and leaving the top untouched.
I have made a fibreglass mould from an old 1930's Willard battery , and plan to make a case from it to fit an optima battery inside. Havent made a top cover for it yet, still a work in progress.
(sorry just realised this is in the 12 volt forum and not the 6 volt Forum)
JACK
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