What should/shouldn't you keep in the "engine room?"

FishFinder · #1 (**permalink**) 07-27-2009

I replaced my fuel tank with a smaller one, and now next to the new tank I've got some space about 4 feet behind my diesel engine in the "engine room" that would be a great place to mount or store something. Wondering if there are some do's and dont's here? I know fire is a concern and there is no firewall between engine and storage area ... my first idea was to lash my diesel jerry can in the space and also store oil there. Bad idea? What about setting up a battery there (batteries in cars are very close to the engine)?

SteveInMD · #2 (**permalink**) 07-27-2009

Lots of boats have batteries close to the engine, however it's not a great idea because the heat is hard on the batteries. If you can build a box that stays cool and has a vent to the outside for the hydrogen gas to escape you could put batteries there.

DwayneSpeer · #3 (**permalink**) 07-27-2009

A few tools that can be used in event of the need of a quick fix might be a good idea. How about a few oil absorbing cloths? Spare fuel filter?

FishFinder · #4 (**permalink**) 07-27-2009

More specifically I was wondering if there is a set of rules like ABYC or something similar that said what could not be placed nearby an engine.

I like the tool suggestions, one of those orange water-resistant toolboxes would fit perfect in there.

rikhall · #5 (**permalink**) 07-28-2009

I keep oil absorbent pads, my fuel fill filter/funnel, and am thinking of adding spare fuel filters. I bought a clear plastic thing that you hang on a bedroom closet door to store shoes in. I cut it so that one piece, about six "shoes" wide and one "shoe" high is screwed to the bulkhead in the engine room where there is lots of room. I can see what is in each "compartment" and I have easy access.

I got it a Zellers for about ten bucks.

Rik