posted 05-17-2004 08:05 AM ET (US)
I know many people have moved the battery to the console in their Boston Whaler boats, but original instructions for battery installation say this:---reproduced from Owners manual----
Battery Installation
As a general rule, batteries on Boston Whalers should be located aft for best weight distribution. This is also the softest riding portion of the boat where there is less danger of the battery bouncing, being damaged, or spilling acid.
Provision has been made on all Boston Whalers for the installation of batteries. This is in the form of a special wood pad molded under the fiberglass floor to accept the screw fastenings of the battery hold downs. Represented below are installations, consult your wood locating diagram (included in Owner's package with boat) for exact location of the wood mounting.
Mounting the battery hold downs where they do not secure into wood will result in the fastenings tearing through the fiberglass.
Batteries should always be enclosed in a covered battery box as shown. It is important that a battery hold-down strap prevent the battery and battery box from moving to avoid wear on the gelcoat surface. We recommend the use of our battery box and heavy-duty, toggled, hold-down strap.
18' Whalers
On Outboard models, single or dual batteries should be located outboard in the engine splash well. Note: wood placement on the wood locating diagram. Using a single battery it should be mounted on the starboard side for easy access to the control tunnel and terminal block. This position will also off set the weight of a pony motor.