I join others among you who have dealt with the fact that the height of the battery compartment is smaller than the standard for batteries made in North America, and I have read several suggestions in this space. I would be grateful for experience in two respects: - Is there experince with Optima AGM batteries? Are they as good as they advertise? Do they fit upright in the available space (one cranking and one deep cycle)? If not, do they fit and are they ok laying on their sides, as advertised? - The West Marine SeaGel group U1, 24 & 27 (cranking) and U1 AGM (dual purpose) are reportedly short enough, but require a "special smart charging system." Does the First 285 (1988)come equipped with the required charger? Hopefully, Barry