Battery size for 77 Airstream front compartments

[squrlgurl]

I'm on the hunt for batteries to fit in my 77 AS Excella 500. Installing a solar charger system next week and cannot seem to find the proper size (physical dimension) battery online. The 2 battery boxes located on either side of the tongue each measure 12' deep x 8" wide x 9.5" tall.
In the past I have had good luck with Optima batteries but recall them to be pricey.
What are you all using ?

[AldeanFan]

I just put a new group 24 deep cycle in my '77 trailer, fits fine. A group 27 would have been tight and I was worried about cracking the plastic battery box.

[raphspeaks]

I went group 27 marine on mine. Purchased an everstart from wally world. Has been working well for our needs. Made by Johnson Controls, can't beat the warranty.

[squrlgurl]

Thanks guys. I'll check Wally World tomorrow for some 27 or 24's.

[overlander63]

Originally Posted by squrlgurl

Thanks guys. I'll check Wally World tomorrow for some 27 or 24's.

27s should fit. That's what's in ours.

[TomKirk]

Group 27 batteries are what you want. I've used 'em for years without any issues.

If your battery cables are old and stiff, you'll want to replace 'em with new ones. In this application, battery cables need to be flexible.

Tom

[HiJoeSilver]

If the group 27 battery has tabs sticking out on the ends to support the carry handle they'll likely make it to long. So you may either have to cut those off being careful not to damage the battery body, or stick with a group 24.

Take some measurements before going to the store, don't forget to leave space for the wire.

[davidz71]

Grp. 27 Delco Voyagers fit in the dual compartments of my '77 Excella 500.

[raphspeaks]

I also used this quick connector to replace the oem version. Works great!

Aurelio Tech Universal 6-10 AWG 120A Battery Connect Quick Connector Plug For 12V Winch Trailer Driver Electrical Devices https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QI6S68S..._VnfIxbY8N27HK

[Mexray]

Yes indeed Gr-27's will fit... Tight but doable...use em' in my 78...

The original hookup uses a short dual cable harness with a connector that is attached to the battery before installing into 'hole' to make connecting easier...

As a battery shop owner, some stats for your consideration:

27's will give you about 100 Amp Hrs capacity (each, at 12 volts)... 24's about 80 AH each...
Those Optima's you mentioned only give you about 55 AH capacity each - not a good choice IMHO - plus they are quite pricy..!

[dznf0g]

I think they are the same compartments as my 2007 classic? Group 29s fit, barely. I just got my second set a couple weeks ago.

[VirginiaLee]

Airstream replaced my batteries with Interstate SRM-27's in my 1977 27' International Overlander when I had it for service last year. They're tight but they fit. Good luck . . .

[airdreamers]

Original purchase of our '85 Sovereign, there was only 1 battery compartment. Not knowing anything about Airstreams and batteries at the time I thought this was the way it was to be. Upon observing the double compartment on other Airstreams, I determined that I was short changed on the original assemble of my '85 Sovereign. Therefore I was on the hunt for an additional battery box etc. As I recently joined the WBCCI Club I was approached by a fellow member and was given an extra battery box that he had no use for. 1 of the perks of belonging the a club like WBCCI, the best! I sport two battery boxes with #27 group Wally World Batteries with 300 Watt solar panel to top them off!!

[raphspeaks]

Originally Posted by airdreamers

Original purchase of our '85 Sovereign, there was only 1 battery compartment. Not knowing anything about Airstreams and batteries at the time I thought this was the way it was to be. Upon observing the double compartment on other Airstreams, I determined that I was short changed on the original assemble of my '85 Sovereign. Therefore I was on the hunt for an additional battery box etc. As I recently joined the WBCCI Club I was approached by a fellow member and was given an extra battery box that he had no use for. 1 of the perks of belonging the a club like WBCCI, the best! I sport two battery boxes with #27 group Wally World Batteries with 300 Watt solar panel to top them off!!

Thats how our excella is - 1 battery. I'm pondering adding 2 as i currently have the sub floor removed. Any ideas on where to get a battery box for 2 batteries? Did you cut in a larger compartment?

[airdreamers]

raphspeaks, I installed a duplicate of the original battery box. They are available either retail or any of the vendors here on the Airforums. Worth having the extra storage.