This 2x4-inch tube looks like just what I need. It easily supports the battery, and it's strong enough for an anti-wrap bar AND a skid plate. Pressed against the bottom of the frame, it's a little too close to the DC joint & the cat for comfort, so I've welded on some 1" square tubing to drop it. That also moves the battery posts away from the body.
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The battery will be wired similarly to the lower R of this diagram:
This is close to the final wiring:
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This is the best battery for the money. ~$80 (during sales) with an 8-year
warranty, the first 3 of which are free-replacement. The Optima doesn't come close to that, or the CCA or reserve capacity, and costs MUCH more. This battery is made by Johnson Controls, just like Optima, but this is from the same line as Sears DieHard Gold, Interstate MTP, and a few other high-quality batteries. DuraLast & EverStart are bottom-end JC batteries.
Before buying a craptasmic battery or other common part, check for
coupons & service offers from Ford.
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