Storing chemicals and tools in the bilge / engine compartment

[deeman7777]

Just got a new (98') Sea Ray 270DA. I am trying to outfit the boat with all the necessary items. My engine compartment is huge and has lots of voids. Do people normally store thier WD-40, spare sparts, tool box, oils, etc somewhere in the engine compartment.

Obviously the storage container would be very secure so it couldn't break loose and interfere with the engine and would be high enough to be out of the area where bilge water may collect.

Is this is common practice? Seems like storage is at a fair premium on boats in the 25'-28' range.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Storing chemicals and tools in the bilge / engine compartment

I don't know what's in the various compartments but just be mindful of heat build-up and fumes/sparks.

When I was young my dad was driving this old deadrise we used to transport the family to an island home; there was a can of hotshot in the engine box that exploded. No harm done but scared him to death especially with a boatload of people; he hove to and drove it up into the marsh. Opened the box, found another can and his Iwo Jima skills came back as he hurled that grenade over the side. I was in another boat and found the whole thing histerical; he did too, but later.

Things are a lot safer now.

 

[Philster]

Re: Storing chemicals and tools in the bilge / engine compartment

People store gear in the engine compartment. As a rule, never store liquids and you never have to worry about fumes from various petro-based products. Rubbermaid-type containers secured well are commonly used. I've seen starboard sheets used to form boxes, too.

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Storing chemicals and tools in the bilge / engine compartment

I store all kinds of parts, extra oil, etc. in the bilge. I use Rubbermaid containers with a snap tight lid. Works great.

 

[oregoncruiser]

Re: Storing chemicals and tools in the bilge / engine compartment

I store liquids in my engine compartment, but I do not have anything that is aerosol, or pressurized. I feel perfectly safe with this activity.