20 replies to this topic

[nickhallencourt]

might of been covered already, sorryy.... what is the recommended battery to use on minis, i.e mini pickup running a 1293cc engine, just a radio and speakers??

[AVV IT]

The Peugeot 306 diesel battery seems popular here, as I understand it's the biggest one available that will fit in the classic mini battery box. Not only does it provide more power than the classic mini item, it's also produced in greater numbers so is less expensive. Someone will be along shortly to confirm the code number, but I seem to recall that it's a type 075.

[HarrysMini]

I thought 096 was the biggest you can fit in the box, I may be wrong though.

The number you want to look at when looking at batteries is CCA (Cold Cranking Amps), this is how much starting power the battery's got. 

Anything designed for a diesel will be more than enough for a Mini.

[KernowCooper]

All here in the FAQs Electrical section http://www.theminifo...ni-battery-box/

[nickhallencourt]

and what cranking amps is needed on start up on mini, or do you know what it pulls? i need to order some battery cable too but unsure what size to get

 

16mm2, 8.2mm OD, 110A

20mm2, 8.9mm OD, 135A

25mm2, 10.0mm OD, 170A

0mm2, 12.7mm OD, 300A

14.6mm OD, 415A

[Andrew O]

Type 075 is the biggest that will fit. Will start the Mini all week long.
I paid about £50 for mine from a Motor Factors

Andrew

[AVV IT]

You may well be right about the 096, I'm not sure as I don't actually have an 075 personally, it's just what most people seem to recommend here every time this subject comes up.

I've actually got a Ford fiesta calcium battery in my Mayfair, which isn't supposed to be at all suitable for the classic minis charging system. But it's actually bloody brilliant, it never fails, has never been near a mains battery charger and holds it's charge for months upon end when the cars not in use. I wish I could say the same for the standard classic mini battery that I've got in my other mini, but I'm afraid that's utter pants and also cost a fortune.

[KernowCooper]

and what cranking amps is needed on start up on mini, or do you know what it pulls? i need to order some battery cable too but unsure what size to get

 

16mm2, 8.2mm OD, 110A

20mm2, 8.9mm OD, 135A

25mm2, 10.0mm OD, 170A

0mm2, 12.7mm OD, 300A

14.6mm OD, 415A

I believe the standard cable is 10mm OD but a bigger cable has less volt drop under load so try 12.7mm but check the sizing of your battery chanel before buying.

 

On a warm day and hot engine its about 120-130amps but cold wet winter mornings draw more

[HarrysMini]

Type 075 is the biggest that will fit. 

 

I've just checked and 096 will fit, however, depending on what make the battery is, you may have to file a little off the 'shoe' at the bottom in order for it to fit pass the seam inside the box.

[SecretSugar]

Apparently a Bosch Silver battery is brilliant, although slightly expensive. Will be purchasing one of these very shortly.

[KernowCooper]

Just depends on the battery make and the casing OD, seen one dropped in almost impossible to get out, 075 is more than any mini will ever need.

[jaydee]

Varta blue top are good value for good price.

I wouldnt rate Bosh, seen so many bosh batteries failing in just a couple of years time that i really dont think they're worth the extra money.

[Badboytunes]

1. I fitted a 306 pud diesel battery. Works brilliantly. Im sure its an 086 battery. Nice snug fit with plenty of CCA.

[firstforward]

Varta blue top are good value for good price.

I wouldnt rate Bosh, seen so many bosh batteries failing in just a couple of years time that i really dont think they're worth the extra money.

+1 on the Bosch, Varta much better.

[SecretSugar]

Where does everyone buy them from?