I purchased a new battery to resolve my starting issue (1994 B2300). It ended up it was not the battery, it was the starter. The old battery is 5 years old and tester stated SOC=89% SOH=70%, CCA=587 (rated CCA=700). So I will say it's still a working battery. I can turn it in for $12 credit or I can keep it. Does it make sense to keep it as a spare? If so, what do I need to do?

 

No, 5/6 years is max battery life even if unused, can they last longer.....sure.....should you trust them..............NO

What is the voltage of the old battery?
12.3v is time to shop for battery sales
12.2v or less is a done battery, replace it now

 

Old one = 12.51V. The old battery was tested outside of the truck.

 

Then is should be OK to keep for 2 more years