I need to get a new battery for my '49 Super. Reading here on these forums, I found a few recommendations, including Interstate, Optima and others.

What I need is an inexpensive non-reproduction battery that I can use while working on getting my car started again and maybe for some driving (if I'm lucky). I would prefer to pick one up locally as opposed to ordering on-line.

I am considering converting to 12V later, mostly so that I can have a real stereo (hidden, of course).

Thanks.

I've had no difficulties finding nor keeping 6V batteries. I get mine from a local battery shop that carries just about everything...it's nice in that they will dispose of the old for you as well. If you can't find anyone like that, an agricultural shop should have a 6V that would work. Mine are Exide commercial batteries.

Good luck.

Thank you. There are not a lot of agricultural shops in West Los Angeles. There are a couple of Battery specialty shops. Can you tell me which model Exide you are using?
I have also found this: Werker
Would this work?

What was the original battery "shape" on your '49? I sold my '50 Buick Special many years ago so I do not remember.

Was it 3 cells laid end to end to form a very long, narrow battery?

Or am I remembering that from another car I have owned over the years?

Try this link to identify batteries that will work, then order from your local supplier:
http://www.dscr.dla.mil/PRODUCTS/bcicvc/cat2.htm

Here is another handy auto and truck battery reference:
http://www.rtpnet.org/~teaa/bcigroup.html

Good question. Since the car was purchased with no battery in it, I have no idea. That's why I'm asking here.

I guess I can measure the vacant space and make a guess out of it. My guess (without measuring) is that it fits into BCI Group # 2E.

I found this article from Hemmings . It gives some interesting history into the batteries for classic cars.

I think your battery is the 3 EE type of Battery. I buy for Interstate for both my 47 and my 50 and have not had any issues.

If you have napa or car quest or any other parts house they can get them.check thier web sites.The last one I bought was $ 30.00 more at battery plus.You need 2ee or 3ee,they are long and narrow & fit in the tray passenger side below air tube.

The Exides I have (well, the one I checked) - 3EH-36. That's for both the '41 and the '52, so your '49 should be the same.

I picked up my 6V from this company. Antique Batteries. It was about $150. Picked it up at the vendors tent in Hershey. I've had it two years and it has been very good to me. I've had some long cranking endeavors in the past and it held up well.

Gary