C-3 battery removal

[Chris L.]

What is the easiest way to get the battery out of a C-3?? I can't get my fat hands down around it to lift it up. I seem to remember a strap of some sort that would attach to each post so it would make a lifting aid. Is there such a thing on the market or is this some type of homemade device? Thanks

[Joe L.]

Re: C-3 battery removal

chris-----

Removing the battery from a C-3 can be a real pain; that's for sure. It's just as you say.

There used to be a battery lifting device that consisted of a fiber-reinforced rubber strap and metal ends which fit over the battery posts. The metal ends had a "self-locking" feature such that when the strap was pulled up, the "locked" to the battery terminals. Whether this kind of strap is still available I don't know; the last time I saw and used one was when I worked in a Chevron service station when I was in high school. However, I would think that they would still be available.

The above-described device would only work on a 1968-E1969, though as those are the only C3s that ever used a top post type battery.

When you get a new battery, get a Delco that has a built-in lifting strap. That design is the "salvation" for C3 owners. The ONLY way to go.

[Terry M.]

Re: C-3 battery removal

There are several kinds of battery lifting devices, depending on the terminal configuration of the battery you have.

For top terminal -- like Joe L talked about:

http://www.joetoolcompany.com/kdt205.html

This one is a combination that will work for both top and side terminal batteries:

http://www.joetoolcompany.com/kdt2279.html

To grip the sides of the battery case -- terminal type doesn't matter for this tool:

http://www.joetoolcompany.com/kasb600.html

I have no connection with this company, and am only using their site because they have pictures of the carrying straps. I personally prefer a strap that has fittings for side terminal only batteries -- less mechanism to get in the way -- since my 1970 has side terminals.

FWIW: I am not looking forward to removing the battery from the 2008 Corvette. It is a top terminal and is in the rear storage compartment. Maybe I should go hunting for one of these for a top terminal.

[Terry M.]

Addendum

These types of battery lifting/carrying devices may be available from your FLAPS (Friendly Local Auto Parts Store). If they don't stock them, they may be able to order them. Since some of the battery manufacturers are including a handle on their batteries, there is less call for these tools now days, so they may not be stocked. Given the age of most FLAPS employees one may need a image to show them what you want. Many of them do not do well without the use of their store’s computer.

[Joe L.]

Re: C-3 battery removal

Terry-----

The top post tool pictured is pretty much like the one I used 40+ years ago. The clamping ends are same design. The strap is different, though. The strap on the one I used looked like a section of an automotive V-belt (that's probably what the manufacturer actually used). Its consequent narrow cross section was hard on the hands when your were lifting a battery. The tool pictured has a much wider strap. That's definitely a better design.

You don't need to look for the tool for the 2008. It's the first one pictured in your post. Plus, it's the cheapest one. For 4 bucks, how can you go wrong?

[Terry M.]

C-6 battery removal

That also happens to be the only one of the three battery carrying tools that I don't have.

Ah, the chance to buy another tool. NOW that IS pleasure.

[John H.]

Re: C-3 battery removal

I've had this one for decades; battery extraction from most Ferraris makes the C3 removal look like a piece of cake .

[Roger S.]

Re: C-3 battery removal

I bought a set of top post to side post adapters years ago. They screw into the side terminals and give you an extended post like on the top post but stick out to the side. I use a strap that goes on the top post battery and lift out the side terminal with little problem.
Roger

[Jim T.]

Re: C-3 battery removal

Chris another way if you don't want to go search for and buy something to lift the battery would be to remove the doors and remove the plastic framing for the doors. This will give you all the room you need to remove and install a battery. I had to do this when I installed a Delco Tough One Plus 1000 battery in 10-6-1993 in my 68. Had to remove the doors and plastic framing again 3-15-2002 when I had to remove and replace the Delco Tough One with a Delco Professional Platinum model 75P-7YR.

[Chris L.]

Re: C-3 battery removal

Terry ...thanks for the links...I just ordered one!
Chris

[Chris L.]

Re: C-3 battery removal

Thanks to all for your help.
Chris

[Kurt B.]

Re: C-3 battery removal

I have many times used the strap you speak of but also have been told by several old timers (guys my age) that the strap has a tendency to loosen the posts internally to the point where they fail to make proper electrical connections.
When I want to remove my 68 battery, I just slide a loop of rope or an old leather belt under it and tighten it up and it makes a "handle" for me to lift the battery out with, much like a rodeo rider cinches a rope around his hand when riding a bull.
Kurt