Optima Yellow Top Install - March 2004

So yesterday I noticed the MC was a little slow to start; the revolutions of the engine seemed slower.  I didn't think much of it; perhaps it was a little colder than I thought, and the heavier oil was causing it.  I checked the voltmeter with the key turned to the first position, and it read 12v, so I wasn't too concerned.  Last night, again with the slow start, but the engine was still warm.  That's that; I'm dropping in the Yellow Top.

Research had demonstrated that the Optima's' negative post required a longer cable than OEM, and that was easily picked up at the local AP for ~$6.  I used a 15", but you could probably get away with 12 or 13, as you can see from the pics below.

The battery cover won't fit perfectly down atop the Optima, but really, it makes no difference.  With the trunk board placed back on top, it barely is even noticeable (see pic).  Add on top of that my ///M trunk mat, and the difference is even less apparent.

Why the YT?  I had it from my pervious vehicle, and figured I should use it before buying another battery.