Any Engineering Folks? Question Regarding Battery Box Placement

[Mahigeer]

Originally Posted by miteofthesun

I agree with you. I may just store the battery directly beneath the hatch, and sacrifice some of that storage space.

I can not tell what kind of kayak you have, but most have front and rear hatches too for storage.

Like I mentioned with longer wires, it could go either places. That would leave the current hatch for your tackle.

[PescadorPete]

I think battery boxes are overkill. Batteries are sealed so the water is not going to bother them. Here is how I do it. Wires soldered to the terminals, a coat of red liquid tape and when it dries, a layer of marine goop on the terminals. Now the battery is completely waterproof. Add a waterproof quick disconnect plug. The "battery box" is an insulated lunch bag. I strap the bag below the hull to the mast tube. Super simple and super cost effective.

[Mahigeer]

Originally Posted by PescadorPete

I think battery boxes are overkill. Batteries are sealed so the water is not going to bother them. Here is how I do it. Wires soldered to the terminals, a coat of red liquid tape and when it dries, a layer of marine goop on the terminals. Now the battery is completely waterproof. Add a waterproof quick disconnect plug. The "battery box" is an insulated lunch bag. I strap the bag below the hull to the mast tube. Super simple and super cost effective.

I agree IF the terminals are properly sealed as you mentioned. Saltwater will cause sever corrosion to the terminals. That is why everybody puts them in a box. In my outback I will be using the Hobie battery holder that attaches to the sailing mast shaft. It should keep it off of the floor.

[alanw]

I've been using a battery for 3 years now with exposed terminals and no box, and no corrosion yet. It's just a battery, don't over think it.

[Amish Ed]

I agree with Alan. I've been keeping mine in a wet footwell in a leaking dry (supposed to be anyways) bag for a couple of years. Almost no corrosion at all. Now terminals at the FF end are another story. gotta use dialectic grease for sure.

[miteofthesun]

That's an awesome solution, Pete.

Thanks for the input everybody!

I'll have to decide between placing the box in the front hatch or in the center hatch. The original wiring harness is long enough to reach either location.