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!
Actually the Deka's usually test out at almost double their rated CCA, but the big thing is the capacity. with such a small battery, yeah it may crank out enough CCA to turn you over in the winter, but it will only do it for a much shorter time than a conventional 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.
For the price you pay if you aren't using the car daily, it is a waste of money. I've been through 3 of them now, 2 of which I replaced within there crappy 1 year replacement period.
I've had to return 3 Red Top's prior to their 1 year warranty for replacements. Only 1 of the 3 replacements is still installed, the other 2 have gone bad and have been replaced with generic O'Reilly's batteries, which i've had much better luck with.
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