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I have a 1951 DeSoto Deluxe carryall with a 6 volt + ground system. What is the best battery choice for this vehicle? I have heard some people use an 8 volt instead for starting issues. Is the 8 volt battery a better option or just a quick fix for other issues. I'm assuming it's better to go with a 6 volt but wanted to hear people thoughts. Is there a certain brand you prefer? Thanks
Hola John
For now purchase the lowest costing 6 Volt battery that you can find at
NAPA or the like for your De Soto Carry-All. In three years from now
- you may have other thoughts.
Rodger & Gabby
OS
FltSgt@outlook.com
Thank you. I'm off to Napa. I've got more work to do, but hopefully can start it up soon.
Jason, go with the most amps you can get in a six volt. I replaced the battery in my '52 about a year ago with one with more amps and it made a lot of difference in how it starts. Cranks over much faster. Also, six volts needs heavier battery cables than 12 volts. They have more amperage and need the heavier cables.
Jason,
To Paul's point, battery cables make a big difference. Years ago I invested ~$100 in a set of correct replacement battery cables from one of the vintage MoPar suppliers, Atlas Obsolete. The cables were exact replacements in very heavy gauge copper wire with correct insulation. Using standard aftermarket six volt battery I've never experienced any starting issues on my '55. Besides normal battery maintenance, you will also want to get a battery disconnect switch and use it religiously when you park the car for longer than a day. That has greatly extended my battery life and on-demand starting power.
Mark
