I took the battery/remote back to Interstate Batteries to let them know of my dissatisfaction. Original battery lasted three full seasons and this latest battery lasted only four months. Before I purchased a new battery I had him open the package and place the battery on a multimeter / battery tester. Even though it only cost $1.89, I'm not wanting to go into their store if inventory is all old stuff. To me it's just buyer beware.
I also asked about the "N" descriptor for the alternative battery. It was explained to me that the "CR2450N" model is designed for marine items, such as the iPilot, not because it's a tad bit thicker than the original model. The model CR2450 comes with a rubber ring around the outside ring to keep water out of the connection.