second battery

David,
firstly I am not a battery guru, however I have heard that it is better to keep the battery charged and avoid the completely discharged situation. So leaving it in the shed for a year may see it slowly discharge. But on the other hand, driving around with a 30 kg lump in the car for a year also will waste fuel. Best option might be to give it a trickle every 3 months or so. I'll be interested to hear what the experts have to say.

My yellow top failed just out of warranty and was not a happy vegemite. Was replaced at a resonable price however the Jury is out on the second one.

my yellow top is now about 3 years and 6 months old, just checked him and he reads 12.64v, he used to hold for months at about 12.65, so I'm pretty happy, just wish it had double the RC, but you know i guess everyone feels that way bout their batteries. My advice is give it a small charge once a month to bring it up to full power, ideally a three stage charger rather than a burst of 4 amps or so at a flat 13.7v. but someone who is a sparky will give better advice i am sure. but that's what i've always done and i can't complain.

You can get a maintenance charger from auto electrical retailers that maintains the battery....about $45. Won't charge a flat one but keeps a good one in top condition. Designed to be left on permanently - ideal for boats over the winter.....might be good for your Optima too.

Thanks Guys for the reply's