RE: Maintenance-free battery

["Fadeev, Alex" <Alex.Fadeev@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

> I skimmed through an article recently that talked about 
> attempting the use of "std" maintenance-free batteries on
> BMW's. The article talked about the batteries being different
> to what BMW normally puts in their cars and that the alternator
> not being set up to charge such a battery. The output voltage
> the alternator is set up for would not be enough to charge 
> such a battery. 
> Is this true? I don't mind paying the price of the "real" 
> battery, just want to find out the "real" story. 

Carl,
	AFAIK a battery is a battery is a battery. 
	In the US, BMW uses re-badged Douglas batteries. There have been
conflicting reports on whether they are available via retail. If you buy an
aftermarket battery, make sure it has the vent if it goes in the trunk. 
alex

------------------------------