Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

I don't know, Brian. I am very pragmatic when it comes to car batteries and the 12-volts from the 1950s and '60s have absolutely no sentimental value to me whatsoever. A good battery will cost about $100 and will function pretty well for several years. I suppose a retro battery might be interesting in a 1955 car; but as I recall from the 1960s, when the battery failed in one of my cars, I went out and bought the best battery that I could afford.

Hi Brian, I too wanted to look period with my battery that fancy and expensive tar top didn't last 2 years. So I too bought the best battery I could find. 4 years and still going strong!

If you want the tar top look buy current style battery buy small can of tar at hardware store brush on thin layer to get desired look also you may attach some fake caps that look like old style filler caps. You wlll have tar top look you did yourself at low cost

Bringing back this thread from the dead, because I find myself in the market for a new battery, and I'm curious if there are any new recommendations from the past 9 years!

Just looking for a battery that fits in the tray, works with the factory hold-down, and is adequate for the starting needs of a 1956 374 V8. AGM batteries are great but not required, and something that works with the simulated tar top battery covers would just be icing on the cake.

What have you guys found that works?

Good Morning...As you look for a new battery...take a look at Optama Batteries...I drive a 1949 Packard Deluxe with the 288 engine. I have had two Optama Batteries in 13 years and I live in Scottsdale, Arizona...a bad battery environment! Granted our Packard is six volt...but many friends run the 12 volt ones that have the same 800 amp cold cranking ability. Look at other options...but prehaps other members on Packard Information will share what battery they use and how long it lasts...Ernie in Arizona

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I use an Interstate MT34 in mine. The one in my Deluxe is 10 years old and still cranks it over well. I have also worked on the production lines that make these batteries and the lines are the most state of the art amongst the major manufacturers that I have been to. Only caveat is it's like 1/4" wider than the tray so isn't a concours fit.

Optima is even better technology and made by the same company, but not needed in my opinion.

Next time we meet in person, remind me and I'll show you the videos and photos I have of this stuff.

Apparently there are new Delco-branded batteries that, based on size, will perfectly fit the original hold-down while the one mentioned above is too narrow. At $400 and no running car to put it in, I’ve not tried one but they are modern AGM inside. According to my notes, the 1956 hold-down fits a battery that is 6-1/4” X 13” MAX (my notes stressed the MAX) and the Delco-branded battery is just slightly under those so should fit perfectly.

Measure the height of the battery, and the take the retainer with you to the parts store. I use that to find the largest battery the retainer fits over that isn't too tall.

Sometimes a battery looks good on paper, but in person those stupid molded in handle extentions on side prevent the retainer from actually fitting.