Excess space in engine compartment

[psimon1909]

Has anyone found a creative and safe way to use all the extra space in the engine compartment. My Q5 has alot of unused space next to the engine. I understand anything I do there must be removable since that it the area the mechanic can sit in for service but the rest of the time it's wasted space.

Has anyone added a storage box that can be removed? (For an anchor, tool kit, air pump, etc.) How would you attach something like that so it can be removed? What kind of box?

My other idea was to add an additional fuel tank. Without doing major modifications I was thinking about adding a 10-15 gallon tank and then running a gas line from the new tank which would be mounted higher into the original tank with a valve that would allow fuel to run from one tank to the other when the bottom tank runs low. Of course you would have to fill up in two places but if I can do it my self its a small inconvenience.

I went to the West Marine rigging shop and they refused to assist in either of these modifications.

Any ideas, suggestions?

 

[Hashi]

Re: Excess space in engine compartment

I used my extra space in my Q7i for spare prop, tool box, troll motor batteries and in-board charger. I also keep one of those plastic tote bins and keep emergency supplies, extra clothing and wool blanket (wrapped in space storage bags). At first, I was worried about the heat from the engine melting the plastic bin but, it doesn't get that hot enough to melt it. Your idea of a spare tank sounds good but may be adding extra weight in the stern that may affect your performance, hole shot, etc.

 

[psimon1909]

Re: Excess space in engine compartment

Thanks. How did you mount the box so it is removable but doesnt move around. Sorry I am real new at this. Also, do you think adding 10 gallons of gas (Less than 100 lbs) will make a performance difference?

 

[rdhawk1950]

Re: Excess space in engine compartment

When you open the motor lid I believe that there is a lable warning against storing flamable liquids in the motor well.Any modification such as this would void warrenties.I believe I would steer away from this idea. I don't blame the dealers not helping in this matter. As far as adding a storage area this can be done fairly easy.On each side of the motor at the motor mount you will notice a risen fiberglass block.At one time the manufacture mounted a piece of poly board to keep anything from hitting the motor when used for storage.There should wood inside this rise to hold screws. If you have a chance to look at a Q4 you can see what I am talking about. The Q4 still gets the polly boards.