Got a question for you. What size is that repro case? Is it big enough to cut the top off at the seam, remove the guts, and stuff an Optima inside? If it is, and you're any good at camoflage, you could have the best of both worlds.

It sounds as if fixing the battery is a lost cause. It makes sense to have on for every day use, and another for show. It just sucks to lose a $300 battery!!   

Joel;

When casting ones own bullets (don't ask), one goes to the tire dealer and gets used weights, then, when momma isn't lookin, one heats them in a coffee can (metal, of course) in the oven at around 350 degrees as it's melting point is 327.5 degrees.  One then skims the stuff off the top and pours the molten lead (hopefully one thought to bend the top of the can into a point for pouring BEFORE heating up{trust me}).

Then one pours the lead into the orifice and with the bolt affixed in the bolt hole, inserts the broken piece, allowing it to cool naturally.  I would scruff up both sides of the lead before trying this.

In Tenessee we'd call that battery "Tore-UP".....

Dave

There is a company that makes covers for optima batteries... however, it just gives the appearance of an "generic" vintage battery.. i dont think it would pass judging... and as for stuffing one into a "gutted" case... somehow i dont think it would fit... not saying its impossible... just more than like im-plausible...

Adams, sorrie bott yer bateriez. Ejoyed riden an yern riten two. Bringens I fond memerize of minen ode traleren park daz en Arkenslaw. hows bot em Hawgs   Tanks muc