Based on what I could find in these forums, I ordered an Optima Red Top 34R for my 2003 MCS. But I've read inconsistent reports on the installation process. First time I've ever replaced a battery, so I'd appreciate hearing if there are any special instructions on installing this specific battery. I've heard some say that it fits in perfectly, while others suggest that a small amount of bending is necessary. Some say there's a gap that needs to be filled. Others refer to a "vent."

Looks like there was once a thread with a photo of the installation, though that photo no longer appears to work.

Any advice on installing it would be helpful. Thanks!

 

Helped a friend with some work and he replaced his OEM battery with one and it went in with no mods. The holdown bracket doesn't make firm contact with the top of the battery, but it was plenty secured. The oem battery has a small vent hose that goes to the bottom of the battery tray, but with the Optima it is not used.

 

Thanks for the input, Bigshot. So this vent hose — I assume it is attached both to the battery and to the car? Are any special tools needed to remove it?

 

If I remember right it just plugged into the oem battery. He left it in the car but it wasn't used.