1978 Corvette Battery

[John A.]

I have an all orginal low mileage 1978 Corvette that was judged at a local event and got first flight. I did receive a 15 point reduction for my battery as being " incorrect group size". So I am looking to replace the battery but cannot find one with the 430CCA as the primary stamping. Most all have a much higher number as the main stamping . What group size is my battery and any suggestions on where to find a correct group size battery for my 1978? I currently have a 75-6 battery which when I look at the Delco battery guide says is the correct group size for a 1978 Corvette so I am not sure what I need. Just starting this Corvette restoration thing so still really new at this.

[Michael W.]

Re: 1978 Corvette Battery

Even if you do find the correct group size, what will the judging points gain be? Is it worth $100 or so? Keep in mind that a modern replacement battery will still get a deduct as it will differ in appearance from an original.

[John H.]

Re: 1978 Corvette Battery

I did receive a 15 point reduction for my battery as being " incorrect group size". So I am looking to replace the battery but cannot find one with the 430CCA as the primary stamping.

John -

The "group size" refers to the physical dimensions/configuration of the battery, not the cold-cranking amps rating. A current Delco replacement of the right "group" number will get the 50% standard deduction - that's the best you can do.

[Tom R.]

Re: 1978 Corvette Battery

Take the hit.It's only 15 points.

[Joe L.]

Re: 1978 Corvette Battery

I have an all orginal low mileage 1978 Corvette that was judged at a local event and got first flight. I did receive a 15 point reduction for my battery as being " incorrect group size". So I am looking to replace the battery but cannot find one with the 430CCA as the primary stamping. Most all have a much higher number as the main stamping . What group size is my battery and any suggestions on where to find a correct group size battery for my 1978? I currently have a 75-6 battery which when I look at the Delco battery guide says is the correct group size for a 1978 Corvette so I am not sure what I need. Just starting this Corvette restoration thing so still really new at this.

John-------


If AC-Delco information that you're referring to indicates that a 1978 Corvette used a group 75 battery size, I believe that information is incorrect. L1969-82 Corvettes used a battery of a group size which is today known as group 78. Group 78 batteries are considerably larger than group 75.

Group 75 batteries were used for all C4 Corvettes, but not C3.

I don't think you'll find a Delco group 78 battery with a CCA rating of 430. That's lower than most modern group 78 batteries except, possibly, real "cheapies".

[John A.]

Re: 1978 Corvette Battery

Thanks for all the great information, hopefully as I do this longer I will not have as many questions.