Chance

It's almost time to replace the batteries in my '03 3500. I really prefer the optima style dry batteries but not sure if two red tops would be the best for my truck. Waht has anyone else done?

Hounddog

Optima's are way overrated.Good for Offshore racing,Baja racing etc.where lots of jarring/banging occurs.But cold amp ratings are lower on them for the most part etc.Buy a pair of top of line common batteys with the proper cold cranking amps for a LOT less money.Last two factory batterys I had in vehicles went 6 and 7 years each.

J BODY

IMHO the red tops will do you fine. I try to push those types of batteries at work as well as our own Mopar Pro 7's (exide version spiral wound battery). Kind of a hard sell because of the price, but those who have taken the plunge have been happy with the money spent. I also have a couple picts at work I've taken of customer trucks with acid damage on the fenders, paint gone from inner fenders, cables ruined, and that helps make the sale for those who care. I have the Pro 7's in my truck (got them at cost + a $25ea rebate for each last year, otherwise I would have gotten the Optima) and they are a year old and I never have to clean them. The oldest set I have out there is four years old this summer and they are still as clean as can be. The desert brings out the worst in batteries.