Battery Location

[kidg]

Hello,

I have a 1976 Catalina 27 on which I'm in the process of upgrading the electrical system.

I would like to move the batteries from their current location in the port cockpit lazerette to a place inside the cabin beneath the port settee. The boat has an inboard Atomic 4 gas engine and I am wondering if I need to take any special precautions having batteries charging in essentially the same space as the engine. I've read several articles that mention the need for good ventilation when housing batteries in the cabin, but they don't mention whether the setup involves a boat with an outboard, a diesel, or an inboard gas engine.

It's not like my boat is airtight but I'm not sure if it's properly ventilated either. Would something like a solar hatch vent be sufficient or should I just leave well enough alone and continue hanging upside down while working on my batteries?

Thanks to everyone in advance for any suggestions.

Greg

[sailingdog]

As long as the batteries are in a battery box, I don't see it being a major issue. A small ventilator would help keep the compartment well-ventilated, which would prevent the buildup of hydrogen gas, and help keep the temperatures lower, which helps the alternator and other engine accessories work better and last longer. Batteries are often stored in engine compartments and isn't really a problem.