Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

I ran into something odd this week. Maybe someone has experienced the same recently and came up with an answer.
The battery on my 55 Caribbean finally died. I purchased the battery from NAPA at least 8 years ago so I have no gripe about durability. The fact that the car has traveled less than 1000 miles since the battery was installed does not change the fact that batteries do not last forever.
I pulled the battery and delivered it to NAPA to confirm it was. Dead and wanted a new battery exactly like the one which died.
Aside from satisfaction with the battery durability, it fit perfectly in the original box and fit within the holddown bracket.

The local store had nothing in the prior size and had to order a replacement . That was not a problem since I was nnot going to have time to deal with it for a few days.

This is when the fun began.l.the replacement looked like the one removed….about 1/4-1/2 inch wider so it would not sear in the box and the hood down had same problem.

The battery was returned and attempt made to find a correct sized battery. I had no luck with not only NAPA but other batteroes also. I picked up a shorter flat top battery from Interstate.that is narrow enough to fit into the box and will fabricate a hold down to let me use the car.
Would prefer one that fits.

Any hints on manufacturer and model number.

Thanks
R

I use a Walmart battery marine.
Fits the whole box, to use Packards bracket, has to be extended. Width. Wise

Measure the maximum height, then take your battery retainer with you to the store and check the batteries until you find the largest one that fits. Avoid the styles with built in side handles.

I use an Interstate MT34 battery. Still works well after 10 years. I have personally serviced the machines at Clarios (the company that makes them) and the process they use is top notch compared to some other companies.

BCI Group 31 did the trick for me in the 1956. I ended up going with a 925 CCA ACDelco Gold AGM battery, It definitely fills up the tray footprint and won't slide around!

The MT34 is far shorter and too wide to use an original hold-down which measures 6-1/2” X 13” so curious if there is anything closer in size.

Just picked up a Group 31 for my '55 Clipper Constellation. It fits snug in the tray and doesn't slide around like the Group 27 it replaced. I can't comment on top hold-down fitment as mine is gone.