So, how difficult is it to replace the battery bracket (tray)? The one on my 85 SE is rusting away from all the battery acid dripping over it. I think I'll install a non-spillable battery (Optima) after I replace the bracket. Anyone got a step by step process or suggestions? I bought a new battery brkt replacement kit from the Fiero Store (they've been out of stock for awhile). But it doesn't come with any instructions. Any help will be appreciated.

[This message has been edited by sledcaddie (edited 05-06-2012).]

Though I've never done a battery tray replacement before, all of the sheet metal parts are welded together with spot welds on the Fiero. The battery tray is no exception. You need to find the location of the spot welds and use a drill with the appropriate sized bit to drill out each of the welds. Once that's done, the tray should just fall out. When you stick the new one in, the easiest thing to do if you have a welder is to spot weld it back in place with rosette welds through the holes you drilled in the chassis. If you don't have a welder, then pop rivetting in place is the next best thing... just use a dab of seam sealer in each hole (including the ones you drilled to remove the old tray) before adding the rivets.

This may give you some ideas.

http://www.frontiernet.net/~jgunsett/BTray.htm

Jack

Only time I did this I seem to recall that I just cut off the old one, ground down the remains and welded in the new one.
I have half a mind though that I left some of the original one on the fire wall and riveted to that but on the wheel well arch where it joins I think I welded it.

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Dave

www.ltlfrari.com

I just ground off the old bracket and then painted everything with Tremclad (Rustoleum) with a brush.

Used sheet metal screws to attach new bracket -- just be careful if working in the wheel well cause the screw tips may jump out and bite you!

I gave everything a second coat of Tremclad once installed.

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'86 GT 2.8 4spd, a very slow work in progress, but fun to drive