Battery Location on 26C

[Doug J]

Currently in my 26S, I have two batteries under the sink. I really don't like them there, and want to relocate them somewhere else. That space could be much better used for other things.I'm interested in hearing from anyone who has them located elsewhere, why you put them there, and how it's working out for you.I hate to give up any storage space, but the batteries have to go somewhere!Seems like the laz is a good spot, but not sure if the added weight so far aft would be a problem or not. Not sure if I want to give up storage space there either. But I will if that seems like the best location.Another spot I'm considering is under the port settee, between the storage openings. But again I'm not sure about the weight distribution especially since the motor is on the same side.Then the bow area is another option, but wiring will be real long. Also I'd be giving up some potential good storage.I guess what I'm trying to say is that I'd like to put them somewhere that is not suited well for easy storage. I know that would make them hard to get to, but that's okay. I look forward to hearing about any thoughts or ideas!

 

[Louis Holub]

MY OPINION...

I sold my 26C last week (an awesome boat), and I purchased a "like new" 26X. I had my battery under the sink, and liked it there because of the weight in the center of the boat...a GREAT LOCATION. BUT when sailing my 26C with family...the family moved about the boat a lot, and I actually didnt notice much difference in BOAT performance or stability. My guess is that you wont notice the difference. The MAC 26C is amazingly "stable"...and FAST TOO! I used storage sites including the LAZ for appropriate stuff, and liked battery storage under the sink...wiring was conveniently located there too.

 

[Ramblin' Rod - Mac 26D - SeaQuell]

Our battery location...

We have the 26D, that has foam flotation under the V-berth.I re-organized this (without removing any) to make enough room alongside the teak drawer, to mount the battery box.When I decide to add another battery, I will get the space needed by breaking the foam flotation chunks into smaller pieces, and packing even tighter yet.I need this weight forward (along with the two anchors hung off the pulpit) to make up for the stuff in rubber maid containers in the aft section of the aft berth, and filled to brim lazarette.

 

[jbwbcat30]

Leave them there

I race my 26c and I moved my batteries to the rear last winter and raced in three races and was back of the pack, moved them back to the middle under the sink and started winning races! This winter I am going to make a slider for better access with drawer slides. PLUS I dont like the idea of the tank and the batteries together.JB

 

[Steve Paul]

Cudos to you

On my 26S I fought that damned battery for years. The slider is brilliantly simple. Cudos to you. Have Joel make them at Idasailor and split the profits. I agree, never mix batteries and gasoline.Steve

 

[Doug J]

All good input!!!

Seems like under the v-berth is really the preferred location. Well that seems like the most work too. I want to install a shore power outlet in the motor well, so wiring will have to run almost all the way fore to aft. Never been one to shy away from a little hard work in favor of doing the job right!