Moncha - Thanks for all the info. It was indeed educational . I changed the terminals because I'm working on a high-end audio install and needed to upgrade them to accomodate a 1/0 ga power wire. I haven't installed any additional wires yet though - just the 4 and 8 ga factory installed wires.

SPAZZ - I might look into an Optima. I think they're a bit expensive, but it might be worth it for the audio system I'm installing.

andy454 - If my battery doesn't turn out to be failing, that will be my next step. I'm not sure why you suggest running the jumper though - can't I just pull the negative clamp off and run the meter between the clamp and the battery terminal?