:( That's NOT funny! :(

Japanese battery--doesn't work until after company sponsored calisthenics and recitation of company slogans first thing every morning.

Let us not forget Chinese electrons. You can line up Chinese electrons 4 abreast and march them in to the sea AND YOU WILL NEVER RUN OUT!!

Cap'n, Thanks so much for reminding us about the need to use nitrogen enriched air in the spare tire to prevent dryrot, but you forgot to mention the benefits of nitrogen enriched air in the tires on the ground. Since the atomic weight of nitrogen (which has 8 letters, and, being divisible by 2, makes for a denser atomic structure) as opposed to oxygen (which has only 6 letters, and is divisible by BOTH 2 and 3, meaning it is flammable) gives the cooling ratio benefit to nitrogen, obviously, nitrogen enriched air is better, resulting in longer wear!

I could discuss the electron differences, but that would take up too much space.

p.s. of course the ultimate upgrade would be Helium filled tires, due to reducing unsprung weight, but this must always be accompanied by aerodynamic modifications to increase downforce. It is a little known fact that Hitler's Blitzkrieg forces used Hydrogen filled tires, which made them incredibly fast, but made for some horrific, fiery crashes.

Mixed emotions about electrical soultions
 

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.

A very astute and knowledgeable post! For those of you not aware of this practice, it was known as the "Led Zeppelin" phenomenon, and has never been matched to this day!!

Led Zeppelin
 

Cap'n, you are, as usual, correct! The "Led Zeppelin" phenomenon was a direct result of Hitler's obsession with all things "Heavy": such as the research into "Heavy Water", which resulted in unraveling atomic secrets that ultimately led to the Hydrogen Bomb; and, of course, research into "Heavy Metal". There are few who walk under the sun today who know that "Heavy Metal" goes back to German engineers in pre-war Europe.