Battery replacement question?

[olezamba]

Hey everyone,
I'm looking to change the battery on my '02 Protege5. Is it possible to slide out the battery without removing the red bar that goes across the length of the hood, or do I need to remove it in order to access the battery?
Thanks,
olezamba

 

[pcb]

You have to remove the red bar (strut brace).

There are just 4 nuts to remove to get it off though.
It's quite easy, as long as you have the right socket or wrench.
Mine were pretty tight.

 

[pcb]

Be aware that there is a battery option that is slightly bigger than the original battery.
It will fit but you may need a different battery tray and battery hold-down clamp.

I didn't want to deal with that, so made sure to buy the battery with the original dimensions.

This is my new battery installed...
I put new battery lugs on my cables.
The factory ones are pretty flimsy.