Batts: Can I replace 27 with a 29

[wufibugs]

My 1986 Hunter 31 was fitted with 3 batts, all size 27. One went bad, and I am working through the rewiring to deal with that. But a friend has 3 size 29s that are nearly new that he is willing to donate.
1. Wondering if I can replace all my 27s with the 29s as long as I can make them fit properly. The 2 house batts were aft of the trans, I would say poorly mounted.
2. None of the batts are in a box. Wondering how seriously I should pursue getting them all in boxes.

Richard

 

[Maine Sail]

As long as they fit you're fine. The only difference will be the the number of amp hours available. With a 12v battery a larger case size usually means more plates and thus more amp hours at your disposal.

One thing you don't want to get in the habit of is mixing old batteries with new. For the best performance and longest life they can all be purchased together at the same time and preferably from a dealer who turns inventory..

You really should try and fit them in battery boxes..

 

[jimg]

31 series batteries will fit the same size battery box also.

 

[Anchor Down]

Easy as Pie

Can I replace my stock fuel tank with a slightly larger fuel tank, as long as it fits in the space and all the connections are made good?

Yup.

My example is analogous to your problem. It really is that simple regarding your batteries. You're just gaining more storage capacity (for electrons in this case, not fuel).

Secure them, make the connections, and you're good.

Good luck.

 

[druid]

Good answers, so I'll just address the battery-box. The batteries should be in SOME vented enclosure, but they don't need to be in individual boxes. Batteries can leak, so the bottom of the enclosure must be watertight. Ideally they should be vented outside, with enough capacity so that if they explode, the won't blow up the box. Realistically you need some venting to get rid of any hydrogen that vents when you charge.

druid