Expert: Kevin Pilotte - 1/4/2005

Question
Hello:

I have what will probably sound like a fairly ignorant question, but since I don't know the answer, I need to ask someone.  I will be replacing my battery.  The recomended CCA's (cold cranking amps) for my car is a minimum 340,(4 cylinder car 2.2 liter engine) I have moved from Virginia (Warm climate) to Chicago (Cold climate), and since then have had some problems starting, and have had to charge the battery several times. So, I would l;ike to get a battery with a higher CCA. My question is, if I get a battery with a significantly higher than recomended CCA, can it do any harm to my electrical system?, IE. overload it, or does the alternator have to work harder to charge it, and perhaps need to be replaced sooner?

Thanks for your time, and please forgive the simpleness of this question.

Regards,

Morad

Answer
Morad,
There should be no problem in replacing your battery with one with greater CCA; as long as the battery fits properly in the battery tray. Automobile manufactuers are not known to install oversize batteries, unless they are available in a cold weather package or as an option. I lived in the Chicago area and Northern Illinois for many years. Might I also suggest using a quality synthetic motor oil, especially in winter months. i.e. Amsoil or Mobil 1. This will make it easier for your engine to crank on COLD winter days. Good luck with the cold.
By the way, I know some good pizza places in Chicago!
Kevin