I believe that you will need to replace the OEM battery tray with a drop-down tray if you plan on eliminating the access cover...that's what I did on my 56.

 

 

You won't need access to your battery very often. I put remote battery posts on mine and a lead to plug in my battery tender..

 

John, I connect my battery tender to the starter solenoid and don't use remote posts for the drop down battery. I used a 98 Econoline aux battery box mounted to the frame. One thing to be aware of with a drop down battery is that it is extremely difficult to raise the battery box up into position with a large battery installed. You either have to have the vehicle on jack stands to raise it up or have a pit to work in. I am just not strong enough to reach out at arms length and raise 60 pounds with one arm. I actually have to use a floor jack to raise the box into position with a battery in place. Pictures of the box are in my gallery.

 

Thanks John, that’s good thinking about remote battery post.

 

I put the remote posts in just in case I ever needed a boost or need to help someone else out..