Battery box lid, what is the purpose?

[NorthStar]

It has all been said, use a battery cover.
1) protect terminals from short circuits.
2) contain fluids and spray if battery explodes.
3) backing plate for tie downs spreads for force.
4) easy surface to clean vs battery with all the cell vents

 

[Stu Jackson]

It has all been said, use a battery cover.
1) protect terminals from short circuits.
2) contain fluids and spray if battery explodes.
3) backing plate for tie downs spreads for force.
4) easy surface to clean vs battery with all the cell vents

Agreed, 'cept "when in a separate battery compartment" which, for example, my boat and most other Catalinas, from the C22 to their biggest boats, do have. While I personally haven't been on many other boats with an eye to "inspecting" their battery compartments, I'd bet most of the production boats also do.

 

[Kingjim91]

I received the actual citation this week. The violation is for a Milwaukee city ordinance, that seems to be modeled after the USCG rule.

It's true that the terminals are exposed when the cabinet doors are open. I'm being pragmatic about this. I've installed vinyl boots ($9 for 2 sets) on the terminals, and that should be the end of the tale.

In truth, I'm grateful to the MPD for the tow, and for the advice on making my boat safer.

 

[AWalker]

All is well that ends well. I am a little surprised that you had to have a tow for a motor failure in what I would assume to be a sailing vessel.

 

[Kingjim91]

It was launch day, and I was headed to the slip without the sails installed.
It's an irony that most of the troubles I have with my sailing boat are with the engine!

 

[justsomeguy]

It was launch day, and I was headed to the slip without the sails installed.
It's an irony that most of the troubles I have with my sailing boat are with the engine!

A cardinal rule: Never leave the dock without a sail at the ready...

 

[worane]

battery box lid

Why not just make a plywood lid with a bit of pine wood around the lower edge to hold it in place. this is what I did for my camper trailer