Are battery box necessary?

[shingo]

I have an aluminium fishing boat with a trolling motor, do I need a battery box or can I just leave the battery in the boat without any protection?

 

[gm280]

Re: Are battery box necessary?

In my opinion...absolutely YES! Think about what will happen sooner than later when that battery gets bounced around and tips over allowing the pos/neg terminals to short against your aluminum hull dumping tons of current... Not a pretty sight to say the very least and most dangerous as well. If you have ever seen a battery short out, you would never have to ask that question again! Not only do you need a battery box but you should have it attached securely as well. Think boating safety all the time...

 

[NYBo]

Re: Are battery box necessary?

Are you familiar with how an arc welder works?
I agree with gm280. In the US, it is a requirement that the battery terminals be protected from accidental shorts; I imagine the rules would be the same in Canada. A battery box is an easy way to get the job done. If possible, secure it to the boat.

 

[wrench 3]

Re: Are battery box necessary?

Vibration is a killer of batteries. Marine batteries are desined to take more abuse but are still a lot better off if you secure them.

 

[UncleWillie]

Re: Are battery box necessary?

In my opinion...absolutely YES! Think about what will happen sooner than later when that battery gets bounced around and tips over allowing the pos/neg terminals to short against your aluminum hull dumping tons of current... Not a pretty sight to say the very least and most dangerous as well. If you have ever seen a battery short out, you would never have to ask that question again! Not only do you need a battery box but you should have it attached securely as well. Think boating safety all the time...

+1
Not to mention that a sulfuric acid spill will go through Aluminum like Alien Blood!

 

[Alumarine]

Re: Are battery box necessary?

You don't need a battery box but you should have it fastened securely.

 

[shingo]

Re: Are battery box necessary?

So if it's in a tight wooden box with a few hole for air, it should be good enough?

 

[matt167]

Re: Are battery box necessary?

IDK about Canada, but at least where I am battery box's cost little of nothing and even Walmart carries them. you'll have more in wood than buying a proper marine battery box..

 

[shingo]

Re: Are battery box necessary?

IDK about Canada, but at least where I am battery box's cost little of nothing and even Walmart carries them. you'll have more in wood than buying a proper marine battery box..

I will search for one, I saw one at the fishing store, but it was 120$, which is more than I paid for the battery, I will try my luck at walmart.

Thank you for the information, I was not aware that it could be dangerous, so thank you.

I found one at "Canadian Tire" very basic but only for 14.99$, I will buy one tomorrow

 

[matt167]

Re: Are battery box necessary?

Typical plastic box should be $10-50 depending on quality. I don't remember what the box's at Walmart cost, but probably less than $20 USD. No need for a super expensive box. If you can strap it closed, and strap it down, that's all you'll need

 

[UncleWillie]

Re: Are battery box necessary?

...I found one at "Canadian Tire" very basic but only for 14.99$, I will buy one tomorrow ...

We have us a winner!

That will be just fine!