I have a 1985 H34. I need to gain access to my batteries in order to complete my installation of a new Pro Mariner Pro Sport 12. charger, specifically I have to connect the positive and negative connections to each battery that run from the charging unit. My problem is the location of the batteries under the starboard side of the cockpit. The opening is way to small to fit thru and my arms aren't long enough fully reach the battery boxes. Has anyone experienced this and if so how did you finally get close enough to the batteries themselves in order to work on them?
Battery Space
- Thread starter jmadarang
- Start date
Unfortunately the only access is to get yourself fully down in the hold. In my 34 I have all the batteries, charger and regulators down in this pit. I go down facing port, step down to the hull and end up squatting with my back against the hull and access to everything. I'm 5'-10", 180# and feel I just barely fit so I can see this being a problem for someone of larger size.
Thank you for the response Charlie but I can tell you right now that I'm way to large to fit in there without getting stuck. There must be a better method. Any other ideas anyone? Please!!!
Replaced my 2 multipurpose batteries with a two battery house bank (240Ah) and a starting battery. Also installed a battery monitor and a remote wattering system for the house bank batteries. Did it with my knees on the deck and standing on my head. Chest got a little sore but then I'm 55, not much muscle left to cover the bones. Best of luck!
Make an access hatch in the aft birth
I am a smaller guy and I can barely get down there myself. No way a bigger or even medium sized man gets down there. If I were such a dude I would create an access hatch through the plywood wall between the locker and the aft birth area. The batteries would be right there once you open the hatch.
I am a smaller guy and I can barely get down there myself. No way a bigger or even medium sized man gets down there. If I were such a dude I would create an access hatch through the plywood wall between the locker and the aft birth area. The batteries would be right there once you open the hatch.
I made such an opening in the aft berth.I cut the plywood and installed 2 hinges to make a door to access the batteries.
But still tight getting in there. The fuel tank is right there.You have to lower the batteries from above then go below to hook them up. but it's alot easier than hanging upside down and having all the blood rush to your head!
Mind you I'm 6'2" and 250lbs so getting anywhere on the boat is a struggle.
But still tight getting in there. The fuel tank is right there.You have to lower the batteries from above then go below to hook them up. but it's alot easier than hanging upside down and having all the blood rush to your head!
Mind you I'm 6'2" and 250lbs so getting anywhere on the boat is a struggle.