I/O Engine Temp Cool Enough for Plastic Storage Alongside?

[83Evinrude]

I would like to utilize the empty space on either side of our engine as storage for light items like fenders, inner tubes etc. I have found a couple of 30 gallon plastic storage containers that fit this space, but does the water cooled exhaust stay cool enough to avoid problems?

Planning on putting rubber feet on the bottoms to allow for drainage under, but unless I fasten them down, they may touch the manifolds. If fastened down they could be kept three inches or so from the manifolds.

What temps are expected and is anyone else doing this?

 

[zbnutcase]

Re: I/O Engine Temp Cool Enough for Plastic Storage Alongside?

Yes they stay cool enough for that, see it all the time.

 

[ringmaster72]

Re: I/O Engine Temp Cool Enough for Plastic Storage Alongside?

I made panels that blocked the motor off, so that I could use that space and not have to worry about stuff touching the motor or falling into the bilge.

 

[83Evinrude]

Re: I/O Engine Temp Cool Enough for Plastic Storage Alongside?

I made panels that blocked the motor off, so that I could use that space and not have to worry about stuff touching the motor or falling into the bilge.

Not sure how I would attach them at the transom end. Can you post some pics showing their construction and attachment?

Thanks

 

[waterspout]

Re: I/O Engine Temp Cool Enough for Plastic Storage Alongside?

If you wanted to find out how warm it will get, go and buy or borrow a digital thermometer( about 15.00). Mine has a temp probe on a wire that is used for outside temp readings, put the probe in the area that you would store the gear, close the doghouse, leave the main temp gauge sitting on the floor. As you are motoring you can then read the temp without raising the motor cover.

 

[H20Rat]

Re: I/O Engine Temp Cool Enough for Plastic Storage Alongside?

you can also get the bunji netting that attaches at both ends, easy to install and keeps stuff away from the engine. (my boat came standard with that)

 

[83Evinrude]

Re: I/O Engine Temp Cool Enough for Plastic Storage Alongside?

you can also get the bunji netting that attaches at both ends, easy to install and keeps stuff away from the engine.

My boat didn't come with netting but I did order nets from Glastron. The nets are not very strong though and I'm not sure they would hold much in place.