Broken Battery shelf-plate welds

lvhawkeye

Recruit
Joined
Sep 3, 2010
Messages
3
Hi, I'm new to this forum, but on my 2nd Tracker Boat. Just picked up a used 2009 Pro Guide 16 WT that has less than 6 hours on the meter. The boat has a single trolling motor battery in the bow that rests on a plate or shelf. Planning on adding a second battery to go to a 24 volt system.

Took the boat out for a test run and it ran GREAT. On the way back though, we ran into some ROUGH water, and the bow got slammed a bit. Unfortunately, I was so preoccupied, I didn't even think about what might be happening inside the bow.

Wen we got back, I noticed that my battery was leaning a bit towards the middle and a little towards the stern side. Further inspection showed that the bottom plate had broken both of its' welds from the stern side vertical plate, although the welds on the bow side held. The plate had cracked and collapsed towards the middle.

Has anyone experienced this? How did you handle it?

Yes, the water was rough, and the boat got pounded some, but for heavens sake! Only TWO 3" welds on each side of the plate is supposed to hold that weight? Man! how's that going to hold two batteries?

Does anyone know what the specs are supposed to be on these welds?

I took the boat to the dealer and pled my case. They took some pics and said they are going to check with corporate to see if they will authorize repair. I have my fingers crossed, but I'm not holding my breath. Suggestions?
 

fishrdan

Admiral
Joined
Jan 25, 2008
Messages
6,989
Re: Broken Battery shelf-plate welds

See what Tracker does and go from there. For an 09', you should have a good chance of getting it repaired under warranty, I'd think. Since it broke all ready, I'd ask if they can reinforce it.

Did the battery have a hold down bracket, to keep it from flopping around? 60# bouncing around in wavy conditions could break things. 2 batteries is going to be 100-140#, so that shelf needs to be stout.

Do you have any pictures?
 

lvhawkeye

Recruit
Joined
Sep 3, 2010
Messages
3
Re: Broken Battery shelf-plate welds

Thanks for the reply. Yes, the battery is/was strapped into it's cradle. I'll try and get some pics posted
 
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