Where to Install ?

[Sea Rider]

A canadian friend owns a deep V hull 530 open Rib, will be powered with an ETec 60 HP electric trim/tilt motor. Being a tiller model plans steering it while sitting on side tubes. Told him it's a bad idea, the guy is tall and heavy, will end unbalacing the Rib to a side as the tubes don't rest on water due to being a high deep V hull asside from having the tiller far way from his hand for a comfy steering.

As a comfy steering alternative plans buying a cushioned seat/locker and install it at front transom, being a electric trim/tilt motor would like to store the battery and fuel tank inside such seat/locker.



Question : How dangerous would be to install both as the tank's air vent must be opened when the motor is working. ?..There are some vent holes at back seat if that helps. Thoughts, risks about such sheltered installation...

Happy Boating

 

[roscoe]

Lots of boats come with the battery and fuel tank in the same compartment, BUT they are well ventilated.

Shouldn't be to difficult to add several fresh air vents to each side of the locker.

 

[JimS123]

Obviously, ventilation is a #1 requirement.

Regardless, USCG regulations require that if a fuel tank is located in an enclosed compartment, there must be in and out vents plus a bilge blower. The key is what's enclosed mean? (to the inspector that is)

I know people do store the 2 together, but its kinda like at their own risk. The battery terminals should have the red and black coverings and of course the battery should be in a battery case.

I did a similar thing some years ago and I'm sure I was safe. Nevertheless I also installed a fume sniffer in the space, and it made me feel more comfortable.

 

[Sea Rider]

If it were mine would divide the full seat/locker compartment into a two independent ones with a fiberglassed panel right in middle of the bat and tank along adding some more vent holes. The owner will have a larger deck space hiding both on same seat/locker. Thanks both.

Happy Boating