Battery Box Worthwhile?

[glastron86]

This my be a stupid question, and I apologize ahead of time if it is! My 1986 Glastron did not have a battery box when I bought it, and I was wondering if I should go ahead and buy one and install the battery in it? Right now the battery just sits in back of the boat near the trim motor. Any thoughts would be appreciated! Thanks!

 

[jtexas]

Re: Battery Box Worthwhile?

it does need to be held down, I use one a those trays with a strap fastened to the floor, keep it from turning over or bouncing around too much. If its where something could fall on it I'd get a box for it.

 

[glastron86]

Re: Battery Box Worthwhile?

I appreciate the quick response! The boxes are only $6 at WalMart, so that's probably a good idea. I needed some input from an experienced boater...I really appreciate these forums.

 

[Scaaty]

Re: Battery Box Worthwhile?

A word of caution here. The boxes come with plastic clips that the strap goes through to hold the whole mess together. The clips screw into something solid, so just don't go and drill a hole through the hull! Another way is to just build a short box out of 2x4's to hold the box and have them butt up against something solid (sides of hull, etc..)

 

[ricksrster]

Re: Battery Box Worthwhile?

I believe the Coast Guard rules state the battery has to be secured.

 

[drewpster]

Re: Battery Box Worthwhile?

I believe the Coast Guard rules state the battery has to be secured.

I agree with ricksrster. I think the CG requires a box as well.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Battery Box Worthwhile?

I believe the Coast Guard rules state the battery has to be secured.

That is true. And covered.

 

[glastron86]

Re: Battery Box Worthwhile?

I just finished getting a box and installing it. I did check the area for the screws first to make sure that I did not just put a couple of holes in the hull. It went very easy...next will be to give the trailer some needed clean and paint, and some bunks, then I will need to replace the floor in the boat next winter. Thanks again for all the great information!

 

[jtexas]

Re: Battery Box Worthwhile?

USCG standards for boatbuilders merely requires installation where metallic objects can't come into contact with the battery terminals. And prohibits allowing hydrogen gas to accumulate. There are no requirements or guidelines for operators concerning batteries.

If your battery bounces around, or if a metallic object falls across both terminals, your battery won't last very long.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Battery Box Worthwhile?

I agree with ricksrster. I think the CG requires a box as well.

The idea of a box is to contain any battery leaks that might occur. There is no law that requires the use of a box. Only that the battery is held securely in place and that the terminals are covered.