Larger Battery Possible in OEM Tray?

[TitanBlue]

I recently purchased a 2016 Sonic LT Hatchback with 1.8L Automatic. It has a fairly new looking Interstate MT47/H5 Battery. When I look at the retainer towards the front of the car; it is tight to the battery, which seems to be OEM GR47 size.

However, slight rust marks makes it appear the bracket had been in another position further forward about 3/4 of an inch; and could be done further, indicating a longer battery. Any insight to this?

 

[ScarabEpic22]

I haven't found a larger OEM support bracket, I looked at it a bit when I put a longer battery in my Sonic. I'm going to fab a piece of metal as a hold-down for it, I don't believe the factory hold down will stretch to the other hole.

 

[TitanBlue]

What battery did you change up to? I can fabricate anything. Thank you!

 

[TitanBlue]

H6 AGM at $200 seems to be the answer!

I am not due for a new battery right now, but it looks like the H6 (vs h5 OEM) will fit fine. I can fab a bracket with piece of stainless steel flat bar. Grind and bend a lip for one end and 2 bends at other end and a hole for the bolt. Might use a piece of tape backed rubber gasket as a cushion underneath the bar. Typical CCA will go from 650 to 720 in an AGM Type Battery. Best price retail is AutoZone Platinum brand at $200 vs $270 for Odyssey. Still made by one of the major manufacturers. Easy Warranty 3 year full replacement. Only $30 more than their Gold.

 

[ScarabEpic22]

I went with an X2 Power AGM, I don't remember the size offhand. Same width, but longer and taller than the factory battery as I was looking for more CCA and reserve capacity.

 

[Italianjoe1]

Yes, you can move the bracket an mounting further forward and run the bigger batteries of that class.