Where should I mount an on-board charger?

[FuriousMob]

I just purchased a Minn Kota 210, and now that I have it in hand I'm debating where to mount it. I have a 1988 17.5' VIP CC, and there really isn't a lot of places to choose from. At first I thought I might try mounting it under the deck via the rear hatch but the side walls down there aren't flat enough to mount it higher where I'd like it. It also wouldn't be possible to do a bolt through, and only would allow for normal screws which seems like they might rip out over time due to the weight of the charger.

So, my new thought is that I have a basic rig that go across the back in front of the splash well with 5 rocket launchers. It's just a long wood board that the previous owner made, and works well, and is very solid without any bouncing. I was thinking it might be a good idea to mount it on the back side of this board, starboard side and run the battery cables through the cable access back there. Seems like a solid plan, but then when it's out on the water and out of use, it will be exposed. I keep the boat fully covered when not in use, so that wouldn't be an issue. I know it's waterproof, and I'd have to cap the AC plug when out on the water, but before doing this, just wondering if it doesn't seem like a good idea to keep it out in the open like this.

It seems the only other option would be to mount it in the center console, and then I'd have to get a terminal block to extend the cables to the batteries.

 

[Splat]

Re: Where should I mount an on-board charger?

Keep in mind you can also mount it totally out of sight and use a plug (see below) so you only have to plug a extension cord in.

Bill

http://www.iboats.com/Marinco_Conne...11447464--**********.407424115--view_id.39081

 

[Boss Hawg]

Re: Where should I mount an on-board charger?

Had almost the same situation on my deckboat-
Put mine on the front inside of the splashwell & also installed the above mentioned plug (inlet) so i can plug it in standing on the ground by my engine

 

[bear_69cuda]

Re: Where should I mount an on-board charger?

This is where I hid the mine (port-side stern)... Plan on same with my new boat.

 

[FuriousMob]

Re: Where should I mount an on-board charger?

Had almost the same situation on my deckboat-
Put mine on the front inside of the splashwell & also installed the above mentioned plug (inlet) so i can plug it in standing on the ground by my engine

I don't think I can do that, and it had crossed my mind, but the lip is just too small. It's barely big enough for the perko switch that's right there. Basically though, yours is exposed then right? If so, and you have no issues, I think I'll go with the rig mount, and I won't have to add any holes to the boat to boot.

Thanks everyone.

 

[FuriousMob]

Re: Where should I mount an on-board charger?

Install complete. Just want to attach a couple more wire holders to the underside of the rig to ensure it doesn't get kicked when out on the water. Here's I quick shot I took under the cover since right when I finished and plugged it in started raining. Bad shot really since I was rushing, but the job should be done.