How to install Optima Battery in the 03/04 Cobra.

[Wohpony]

I've seen alot of threads about what Optima battery fits best in the 03/04 Cobra so I decided to make a How To.

So first off you need to pick up an Optima Battery (Part # 34-78, Model # 3478DT.)

The only tools you should need is a 5/16" socket and rachet with a extension and a small saw.

Remove the current battery then remove the battery tray by removing the 3 5/16" bolts one in the center and 2 on the side.

Set the Optima battery in side the tray, you will notice its a little to wide mark the side of the tray that sits closest to the headlight useing the battery as a guide.

Cut the side off the tray.

Fit test the battery and cut more if needed.

Install the two adapters that come with the battery.

Install the battery tray, slide in your new Optima and tighten it down, connect the terminals and enjoy!

 

[Juruense]

I would add a couple things:

It is best to cut the tray on the side towards the front of the car this way you will have an intact lip that will prevent the force of acceleration from sliding the battery back towards the rear.

If your hold down bolt is corroded as they often are you can get a new battery tray at the Ford parts counter for only $14 that comes with new hold down bolt.

 

[EvilTwins]

Why did you put that blanket back around the battery? I run an optima but not that ugly blanket

 

[Juruense]

I think (not sure) that the blanket is to prevent damage when the battery explodes or to insulate it from heat...

I also removed my blanket.

 

[Jomo1994z71]

Very nicely done

 

[Hmbre97]

Or you can run the Ford GT battery (just a group 75/35 Optima with a Ford sticker on it) and not have to cut your battery tray. I got my battery from Steve @ Tousley for $129 + shipping and the adapter was free from Optima. Don't even have to pull the tray to install it since there are no modifications needed.

 

[whyte_03]

i have a red top optima and by tray is not cut.

 

[Juruense]

There are two size optimas, you only have to cut the tray with the larger size.

 

[Areteracing]

I installed a different tray that was made for the Optima batteries. Holds it very well.

 

[10thAnnvCobra]

I installed a different tray that was made for the Optima batteries. Holds it very well.

Wow! ...and where did you get that?

 

[timbo3282]

I installed a different tray that was made for the Optima batteries. Holds it very well.

Yes where did you get that? Is it a custom job or is that available for sale somewhere?

 

[nolyaw]

Anyone ever figure out where this tray came from?

 

[nolyaw]

Found it on ebay, looks like a killer piece!

 

[LIKE IT]

Or you can run the Ford GT battery (just a group 75/35 Optima with a Ford sticker on it) and not have to cut your battery tray. I got my battery from Steve @ Tousley for $129 + shipping and the adapter was free from Optima. Don't even have to pull the tray to install it since there are no modifications needed.

? what is the CCA on that battery Thx.

 

[LIKE IT]

Anyone ever figure out where this tray came from?

E/Bay and Amazon.com has them.

 

[BreBar21]

If your hold down bolt is corroded as they often are you can get a new battery tray at the Ford parts counter for only $14 that comes with new hold down bolt.

I need to do that. My bolt is corroded almost to the point where it won't thread in.

 

[Back-N-Black]

I would add a couple things:

It is best to cut the tray on the side towards the front of the car this way you will have an intact lip that will prevent the force of acceleration from sliding the battery back towards the rear.

Wouldn't the force of braking be higher than any possible force of acceleration?

i have a red top optima and by tray is not cut.

What is the part number and model number?

There are two size optimas, you only have to cut the tray with the larger size.

What are the part numbers for these?


I've gone to the Optima website and they do not identify any batteries for the Mustang or the GT.

Anybody know who Tousley is? Tousley Motorsports perhaps?

 

[04RedfireVert]

The answer to that last question would be Steve at Tousley Ford. Look in the vendor section.

 

[venom one]

Anybody know who Tousley is? Tousley Motorsports perhaps?

Tousely Ford

 

[Back-N-Black]

Or you can run the Ford GT battery (just a group 75/35 Optima with a Ford sticker on it) and not have to cut your battery tray. I got my battery from Steve @ Tousley for $129 + shipping and the adapter was free from Optima. Don't even have to pull the tray to install it since there are no modifications needed.

This looks like a real nice setup but my 03 SVT Cobra hold down clamp does not look like the one you have pictured here. I can't find a 75/35 here but did find the 75/25. It was just too narrow for the 03 SVT Cobra mounting clamp.