Optima Battery Failure Characteristics, Engine Turns over slower and slower Options

[Spoke]

I have a red top Optima battery in my 74 and over the last few months, the engine has been turning over slower and slower. What are the characteristics of the Optima when it is going bad?

Lead acid batteries usually just dump and won't start the car.

I haven't checked the voltage at rest or while the engine is running to see if it's the battery or my charging system. I guess that will be tonight's activity.

Can I use an external charger to try to put a full charge on the battery?

Thanks,
Spoke

[tommy914]

This is the info from theOptima Battery web site's recommendations on charging.

This is for the red top.
The following charging methods are recommended to insure a long battery life:
Always use a voltage-regulated charger, with voltage limits set as described below.
RedTop Type: 34 & 34R - 34/78 - 6V - 25 & 35 - 75/25
These batteries are designed for engine starting applications. They are NOT recommended or warranted for use in deep-cycle applications.
Alternator: 13.3 to 15.0 volts, no amperage limit.
Battery charger: 13.8 to 15.0 volts, 10 amps maximum, 6-12 hours approximate.
Rapid Recharge: Maximum voltage 15.6 volts (regulated).
Maximum current: No limit as long as temperature < 125°F (51.7°C).
Maximum recharge time: Charge until current drops below 1 amp.
Float charge: 13.2 to 13.8 volts, 1 amp maximum current, time indefinite (at lower voltage).
To charge the OPTIMA 6V-1050, six volt battery, divide the charge voltage setting in half.
All limits must be strictly adhered to.
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