Battery OEM Mazda or OPTIMA
If your cover does not fit on the 75/35, you must be using the spacer under the battery! I have this model and my cover fits fine and no modifications to the battery box were required.
I have a redtop 75/35 and it fits fine. The battery cover doesn't fit over without a little modification though. And you have to slightly trim the top bracket that folds down over the battery..
red top model # 8020-164-35 RT I have one and it fits perfectly in the oem battery box and cover.
Redtop here as well - fits fine and bolts in just fine.
i'm very pleased with the battery's performance. i took the family to the drive in theater and sat through 3 movies listening to the stereo and using the lights. when it was time to start the van, it did so without even the slightest hint of complaint. also, this afternoon my EV gave me a fit and would not fire up at the car wash. i cranked the living bejeesus out of the starter and the battery never once gave a sign of weakening. no jumps were needed. a highly recommended battery alternative!
I put in a Optima yellow top that I got at Costco for about $150. I bought a $5 extension so my wires could reach the terminal. Great sealed dry cell battery!
I would guess the alternator is fine, but you toasted the battery on the charger. Optimas don't respond well to rapid charging, and will do as you described. The top will warp, and acid/gas will escape from the vent holes. I'd bet it was screwed before you put it in the car, and the drive just finished off the job.
I had the yellow top in my 97 and It was nothing but problems, I know that doesnt help you answer your questions... Just saying
They are not worth the money, I work at a local auto parts store and have Two Red Top Batteries sitting on my battery pallet waiting to be shipping out and recycled. If that Red top wasn't made in Colorado, it's junk.
they used to be good but over the last 5 years or so they have dropped in quality. I have purchased 3 red tops and 4 yellow tops for customers and each one failed prematurely.
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