Turns out the problem was a wiring mistake I made on Pin 8 of X069... ran the chassis wiring to Start/Run 12v+, which popped the 5Amp fuse. Rewired and everything is good (so far).
Had a chance to build a battery mount solution, as shown in the pictures below. The result works great, but it is sometimes amazing how $8 of metal, some old bolts, a MIG welder and various cutting/grinding tools can sap up 6 hours. As you can see from the first pic, I welded stand-off mounts to the chassis; the inner mounts (toward the center of the car) obviously had to be taller due to the recessed portion between the frame rails. I used nuts to adjust the height and therefore the level of the battery frame. I painted it using the leftover rattle-can paint I had mixed for the engine bay.
I ended up mounting a battery designed for a Miata, and the dimensions are 7.5"x5.0"x7.3". Since it is AGM (absorbed glass matt), it is fully sealed, won't need venting, and can be mounted any which way. I ended up laying it on its side tucked up against the back of the rear seat. I bought it from O-Reilly's for $130 after exchange of the old 318ti battery.
I took it for a spirited drive now that I've got a securely mounted battery, and quickly discovered the car is now "traction-limited." I need stickier tires! |