Hello! Like so many others, my '94 is missing this and is about the only thing needed to restore it to showroom (well, a dusty showroom). It seems so many are missing that they might not fit current batteries. Is that the case or were they just discarded or stepped on? My '94 has a Group 35 at present, but it's like 14 years old anyway. Is there a better fit, a 24 maybe? The OM doesn't really seem to list normal groups. Also, see the image. Does anyone even have this intermediate bracket anymore?

TIA

 

The intermediate part is actually a nylon web/strap setup that wraps around the battery for when the battery needs to be removed. It might still be available out of Japan.

 

I replaced my battery 2 or 3 years ago. I don’t recall the specific ‘group’ but I had no issue at that time with getting the stock size replacement. I did remove the new battery’s integrated plastic handle/strap that ran over the top end to end. Once that was clipped off , the stock battery cover fit fine.

If a lot are missing it may be from owners leaning on them when working under the hood. You may have to buy the entire surround/tray and cover set, but I see them come up FS used occasionally.
I bought my car as a relatively low mileage completely stock 93 example over 20 years ago. I’ve never seen that (18-522) web piece.

 

Thanks for the replies. Do you recall the group size you used? Thanks again.

EDIT - Oh, NM. Looks like either 24F or 35 is spec these days. Thanks for your input!

 

the dude that replaced the first battery used the web piece to pull it out, and then they didn't put it back.
if you go to a dealership they have a bunch of batteries in the corner with the straps

 

this is what Mazda currently lists for batteries, 026R = 26R. i feel like they used to spec a 35 but whatever.
as per usual the US uses a BCI group size for batteries, and Japan uses a JIS size, and we get the closest equivalent
the OEM would be a 65D23L from here https://www.gs-battery.com/
Mazda USA would supply an interstate

 

I have a business account at Advance Auto. My ‘old-guy’ memory of clipping the plastic strap must have been for the previous battery. This one has a handle that folds flush and isn’t in the way at all. Checking records, this is what I put in….