After returning from a day sail with about two hours of engine run time (Volvo/Penta MD20-40D) I noticed that there was water in the start battery compartment. The battery is in a plastic box so there is no electrical danger. When I pumped it out, it amounted to approximately 1/2 gallon. There was no water at all in the engine compartment. It appears as though the water came forward from somewhere between the engine and the stern of the boat. The water appears to be somewhat greasy and possibly pink in color but it's hard to tell. Coolant fluid level is normal. I've been out a few times since then and there is water in the battery compartment after each trip. Any thoughts as to the origin of the water?
Beneteau 393 - water in start battery compartment
- Thread starter Larry737
- Start date
Is it saltwater or freshwater? Knowing that will help troubleshoot the source(s). Same issue on Beneteau's discussed in this thread with possible causes:
Water by the starter battery...doesnt drain to the bilge
We have a Beneteau Oceanis 40. Recently we have noticed some water by the starter battery, under the stairs. The obvious cause of the problem was thought to be the inlet valve for e engine. Two replacements later and we think probably not! The area seems to be a self contained area and it...
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As for clues, if the water smells like diesel, I'd think the pink indicated some diesel in it...otherwise I'd guess it was antifreeze from winterizing--if you do winterize in Texas. If it indicates antifreeze, I'd be wondering if my sailing caused some of the water from the vast bilge network to appear.
I had water in my battery box for an I/O boat I had. It didn't make sense since the box was tucked up under the gunnel. I assumed some deck fitting was leaking rain water. It turned out to be water from the leaking manifold which was being flung around the engine area by the alternator belt and pulley. About 5 boat bucks later order was restored. 
