Re: Car Gallery on Batterytoppers
 

Like Brian says...it's not gonna fool most car guys, or especially car judges, but I think it's a lot better to glance in and see what appears to be an R-59, versus your run of the mill sealed unit. And, once you've had an R-59 "pop the cherry" on your engine compartment, then you are gonna be a little gun shy. Plus, it's nice to have the extra juice of a modern battery for when that big block is just a tad warm and is not really wanting to start... https://www.yenko.net/ubb/smilies/images/icons/smile.gif

[Man, I hope Casey doesn't see that remark about something "appearing" to be something it's not! He may think I'm switching over to SA!]

[Edited by Chevy454 (12-05-2001 at 09:36 AM).]

Re: Car Gallery on Batterytoppers
 

I doubt anyone would try and fool a judge with a topper but they are excellent for a driver with a real battery. They fool the eye at first glance.I've had an R-59 pee all over a nice fenderwell too.

Re: Car Gallery on Batterytoppers
 

I don't have a frame off car. But I learned the hard way with a repro R-59 that cracked. Toppers all the way for me. Just my $2.
Mitchell

Re: Car Gallery on Batterytoppers
 

I must be doing something wrong with my R-59's.I've had two now in my Camaro.The first one lasted 7yr on a driver.I think as long as the electrolyte level is just covering the plates and your charging system is in good shape there is no reason the R-59 can't live in peace.I've always had one of those battery mats between the battery and the tray and never had anything on it.I may just have good luck,check you levels........

Steve

Re: Car Gallery on Batterytoppers
 

I must admit,I have never seen an R-59 pee either.I bought mine right after resto n 1994,and she is still going.Just keep the Battery Tender on it each day,check the levels each month,and drive it May-November.I had no idea they could leak so frequently.In that case I could see a market for this Topper.

Re: Car Gallery on Batterytoppers
 

First repo R59 I had lasted more than 3 years in a L78 Camaro. The Restored # 30 ZL1 I had later had to be torn back apart because of a leaking R59 that even made a mess of the sub frame. When they first came out a friend sent about 5 of them back one after the other as they all leaked as soon as you filled them . All leaks were down in a corner. I think I have two now that don't leak.

Re: Car Gallery on Batterytoppers
 

Mine cracked....not sure why.It lasted a long time before that happened.

Re: Car Gallery on Batterytoppers
 

I don't want to jinx myself but all the repro
R-59s I purchased always worked as they were intended to, for me.

I have some that have been in service for several years without incident. I purchased my first one in 1987 and have been buying them from the same company since.

I do not know if they are all the same or if there are several mfgs.

But, as insurance to all the potential problems mentioned, I will change over.

The toppers do have a "cheap" injection molded look and the plastic does not have a consistant grain, but for my drivers they look fine.

Re: Car Gallery on Batterytoppers
 

Belair62,

Wheelstands over two feet high have been known to crack a battery case or two and maybe even a few other parts. https://www.yenko.net/ubb/smilies/images/icons/smile.gif

[Edited by Stefano (12-06-2001 at 09:09 PM).]

[Edited by Stefano (12-06-2001 at 09:10 PM).]

Re: Car Gallery on Batterytoppers
 

Could have been that pesky telephone pole.Not sure.