Battery group number for M38

[jmac851]

I just bought a 1952 M38 with a M38A1 engine installed. The unit had been sitting for about 8 years in a garage. The batteries that are installed are group 56S. I can not find this group of batteries at any of the auto parts stores here in Phoenix. What group number batteries are being used to replace these? Thanks

[RICKG]

I used a pair of 51 R-4 off the shelf @ wally world for about 75 bucks a copy and they perform well..
_________________
keep 'em rollin'
RICKG MC 51986 DOD 01-52, '50 CJ3a

[chuck]

I have Exide groupe56's in my M38 ,but my battery guy said that # is being phased out. Too bad, because they have a lot of cold cranking amps. #51r's will work but short and a little narrow.You can make them work with a wood filler. The concern is the battery shifting and shorting to the hold down. I expanded the width of my hold downs 1/4 in. for the #56 and they fit perfect.
Chuck

[jmac851]

I bought a couple of 51s' at Walmart. I have to use a cable strecher to make the connections but that wont be much of a problem. I measured the 56s' and thought they would rub on the bolts that hold the tray in the cowl box.

[RICKG]

Due to the size difference between the group 22 and 51 batts
i'll make custom holddowns, just havent got it done yet.
_________________
keep 'em rollin'
RICKG MC 51986 DOD 01-52, '50 CJ3a