I find this thread very interesting. I have no problem with my battery, as I have removed it and replaced with Mighty Mite Battery Eliminator, a crossover from motorcycle technology. I have removed the starter too, good weight savings, and replaced with a concussion starter. I simply insert a Remington shotgun blank, pull the trigger,and presto, engine is running and all electrical needs are satisfied direct from alternator. The only difficulty I have found is getting started at an airport or near any federal building.