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Battery - OEM or Aftermarket?

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  #1  
Old 01-27-2008, 06:17 PM
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Default Battery - OEM or Aftermarket?

Hey guys... I did a search and read all I could find, but I couldn't really find a direct answer to this one...

I need to replace the battery on my 03 FXD. Of course I'm looking at aftermarket to maybe save a few bucks, but is the OEM battery a "best fit" or are other brands acceptable without the dealer HD name mark-up?

Thanks...


Mike

 
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Old 01-27-2008, 06:33 PM
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Default RE: Battery - OEM or Aftermarket?

Check Interstate batteries....better price andlast longer. I installed one couple months ago in Sportster and will put one in EGC whenever.
 
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Old 01-27-2008, 07:23 PM
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Default RE: Battery - OEM or Aftermarket?

Whatever brand you purchase, get a sealed battery so you don't have to deal with acid and checking the level. They cost a little more, but are worth the price. The battery on most of these bikes takes a bit to get to. Pick up a Deltran Battery Tender while at it. It maintains the charge without overcharging and ruining a good battery.
 
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Old 01-28-2008, 06:41 PM
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Default RE: Battery - OEM or Aftermarket?

The past couple years' Harleys have been using the DEKA AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) sealed batteries. Not sure if you can upgrade via normal HD dealer channels. Try seaching for a DEKA dealer in your area or call their distribution center. They, just like interstates and many other brands are manufactured by East Penn mfg.
 
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Old 01-28-2008, 06:43 PM
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Default RE: Battery - OEM or Aftermarket?

I have to get a new battery, just going aftermarket brand, almost 1/2 the price of an HD.
 
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Old 01-28-2008, 06:44 PM
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Default RE: Battery - OEM or Aftermarket?

OEM
 
  #7  
Old 01-28-2008, 06:50 PM
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Default RE: Battery - OEM or Aftermarket?

go with aftermarket. They make Harley batteries for them.
 
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Old 01-28-2008, 06:51 PM
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Default RE: Battery - OEM or Aftermarket?

Batteries seem to be one of the things that HD does right. I'd stay OEM.
 
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Old 01-28-2008, 07:52 PM
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Default RE: Battery - OEM or Aftermarket?

Stay with OEM. They will last and perform very well if properly maintained.
 
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Old 01-28-2008, 08:15 PM
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Default RE: Battery - OEM or Aftermarket?

Ditto on the Deka batteries. I have one in my road king, my 66 elcamino and my 85 nissan. same battery as the H-D and a lot cheaper cost. local family owned parts house has them in stock.
 


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