The size 34 car battery, also known as Group 34, is a popular choice for marine and RV applications, including boats, motorhomes, and travel trailers. It is often compared to the Group 24 battery, which is also commonly used in these applications. While both batteries have similar dimensions, there are some key differences between them in terms of size, battery specifications, and construction.
Dimensions and Weight Comparison
The Group 24 battery typically measures about 11 inches long, 6.875 inches wide, and 9.5 inches tall, while the Group 34 battery measures approximately 10.06 inches long, 6.88 inches wide, and 7.94 inches tall. This means that the Group 34 battery is slightly smaller and lighter than the Group 24 battery, weighing in at around 43.5 pounds compared to the Group 24’s 46.3 pounds.
| Specification | Group 24 Battery | Group 34 Battery |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 11 inches | 10.06 inches |
| Width | 6.875 inches | 6.88 inches |
| Height | 9.5 inches | 7.94 inches |
| Weight | 46.3 pounds | 43.5 pounds |
Battery Specifications Comparison
When it comes to battery specifications, the Group 24 battery is typically rated at 550 cold cranking amps (CCA) or 690 cranking amps (CA), while the OPTIMA BLUETOP D34M Group 34 battery is rated at 750 CCA (870 marine cranking amps). In load testing, the Group 24 battery measured 698 CCA, while the Group 34 BLUETOP measured 897 CCA.
The reserve capacity rating on the Group 34 BLUETOP is 120 minutes, while the Group 24 reserve capacity rating is 140 minutes. This means that the Group 34 battery can provide power for a longer period of time during a power outage or when the engine is not running.
| Specification | Group 24 Battery | Group 34 BLUETOP Battery |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) | 550 | 750 |
| Cranking Amps (CA) | 690 | 870 (Marine) |
| Load Test CCA | 698 | 897 |
| Reserve Capacity (minutes) | 140 | 120 |
Battery Construction and Materials
The Group 34 battery is an AGM (absorbed glass mat) lead-acid battery, while the Group 24 battery is a flooded lead-acid battery. The OPTIMA Group 34 battery uses 99.99% pure virgin lead, which reduces corrosion, while the Group 24 battery uses recycled lead.
AGM batteries, like the OPTIMA Group 34, are designed to be more durable and resistant to vibration and shock compared to traditional flooded lead-acid batteries. They also require less maintenance and can be mounted in any orientation without the risk of leakage.
Warranty Coverage
In terms of warranty coverage, OPTIMA BLUETOP batteries come with an easy-to-understand, two-year free-replacement warranty, while other Group 24 batteries may come with warranties as short as one-year or may have a pro-rated warranty that requires you to pay for a percentage of your warranty replacement.
This means that the OPTIMA Group 34 battery offers a more comprehensive and user-friendly warranty compared to some Group 24 battery options.
Applications and Considerations
The size 34 car battery, or Group 34, is a popular choice for marine and RV applications due to its compact size, high performance, and durability. It is often used in boats, motorhomes, and travel trailers, where space and weight are at a premium.
When choosing between a Group 24 and Group 34 battery, it’s important to consider your specific needs and applications. The Group 34 battery may be a better fit if you require a smaller and lighter battery with high cranking power and reserve capacity, while the Group 24 battery may be more suitable if you need a slightly larger battery with a longer reserve capacity.
It’s also important to ensure that the battery you choose is compatible with your vehicle or application, as the size and terminal configuration can vary between different battery groups.
Conclusion
The size 34 car battery, or Group 34, is a versatile and high-performing option for marine and RV applications. With its compact size, high cranking power, and durable AGM construction, the Group 34 battery offers a compelling alternative to the more commonly used Group 24 battery.
By understanding the key differences between these two battery groups, you can make an informed decision on which one best suits your needs and ensures reliable power for your boat, motorhome, or travel trailer.
References:
– Club Lexus Forum – Group 34 Battery Height a Little Too Short
– Reddit – Group 34 Car Battery in Place of Group 25 Any
– Subaru Outback Forum – Why Group 34 Battery and Not 24
– Science Direct – Comparison of Group 24 and Group 34 Batteries
– OPTIMA Batteries – Difference Between Group 24 and Group 34 Battery
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