Battery placement

[John Thomas]

I have a 1986 H23 and am currently wanting to modify a few things on the boat. First I would like to move the batteries (I have 2 deep cycle) to the unused space under the V-berth. My reasoning is that this space is rarely used due to its location, but it is easier to access (to check to battery water level everynow and then) than the bottom of the cockpit storage locker, where I have all manner of stuff stored that I would have to pull out. I'd also like to install a larger fresh water tank (20-30 gal) in the locker under the cockpit floor and right now the second battery sits in that spot. My dilemma at this point concerns the need for good ventilation in a battery compartment. I have a few ideas involving a solar powered fan and drilled-out bulkheads, but I'd like to see what others could imagine as a solution for this. If anyone of you can come up with any ideas, please let me know. I'm open to all suggestions at this point.Thanks,John "Knot Serious"

 

[Greg Stebbins]

I'd think....

John,Wouldn't the platform for the batteries under the V-birth end up being more of a challenge than the ventilation issues?As for the water tank, I'm still considering a 30 gal. water bladder directly under the cockpit. Weight distribution would be better there and, Hunter agrees (I called and asked for once).GregH23 Faster-

 

[John Thomas]

Wooden platforms and Water blatters

The platorm will not be much of a problem. I am preety good with wood. my biggest concern remains the ventilation. I have considered the water bladder myself and may go that route, however i think I would still place the bladder it a thick plastic storage container to further protect it if possible. I'm glsd to hear that Hunter aggrees with us about the location of this. Did they have any other insites?

 

[Greg Stebbins]

John, Hunter's advise

Nothing to earth shattering.1. 60-40 rule is important. 60% on the keel. Can't hang the boat for any period of time.2. Not a good idea to add ballast.3. Keel and/or wing extensions are fine as long as weight isn't greatly increased. Originally, the 23 had a centerboard so extra strain from 18-inch extension is covered. But 800 lbs. is about your limit.4 Refused to give the name and address of designer of mast step.GregH23 Faster-

 

[Steve Dion]

Use gels or AGM

John:If you go to AGM or Gel batteries you do not need to worry about the ventilation or maintenance of the batteries. One thing that you did not mention though is the length of the battery cables. Be sure to keep this in mind.

 

[Wanderer138]

How about batteries under companionway step?

I am considering moving my battery out of the cockpit locker and into the space behind the companionway step (all the way back next to the bulkhead, further back than a cooler would fit. I also keep a spare deep-cycle battery under the V-berth next to the porta-potty.I figured I could get both of these batteries into that space if I made up a wooden holder to keep them from sliding around. Then they would be right there at the power panel, in parallel, close to the solar panel and low down in the boat at the centerline.The location is also pretty accessible for maintenance purposes.Does this idea make sense?PeterS/V Raven