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I'm new to this model. Does anyone know if moving the batteries to under the console is a good or bad idea?
Seems like the weight is just more drag in the back.
thanks

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Good for weight distribution, keeping them out of the elements and better location for master battery switch.

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Thanks Phil. That's what my thoughts were as well.
Anyone else?

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Whaler eventually moved the battery to inside the console for the last rec model of that hull (19 Outrage II). So they obviously felt it was a good idea. I can't think of any downsides.

Besides the weight, I have always felt having the battery just sitting there on deck in the stern sections looks a bit shabby, too.

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I moved the batteries to a separate compartment under the console on my 1985 Outrage 18. There are some picture of this on my personal page.

One other advantage is that I can carry tubs and buckets with crab/shrimp lines and floats in the splashwell, which keeps the rear deck clear for pots and pulling.

Dennis

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Be sure to support the console floor. It was not designed to hold the weight of a battery.

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Hi Walter,
At least in my case, the rigid battery trays, thick coffin lid, and underlying foam seems to do an adequate job of transferring the stresses to the hull and tank. Knock on wood, but after 2 seasons with this arrangement I don't see any sagging or stress cracks. This is with 2 group 27 batteries, and some fairly bouncy water. I'd bet that leaving the foam in place on top of the tank if you ever remove the cover will help the battery situation.

Dennis

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Careless reading of Walter's post on my part. He is pointing out the console floor will not support the weight of the batteries, while I was pointing out the deck is strong enough. My apologies!

Dennis

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I cut the floor just around the battery case and had the battery sitting on the deck. Lessens the room taken up.

See my personal page, 1/2 way down.

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Thank you all for your input. Quite helpful.
We will be relocating the batteries to under the console.
It will look neater for sure and free up weight off the tail end.

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Probably redundant but you will need to increase the guage of your battery cables to accomodate the increased distance between the battery and the motor. It muct be marine quality and count on spending some money.

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You can also use welding wire which is more flexible and easier to work with. Only thing is you will have to make the cables yourself. i moved my batteries to the console on my 1989 18’ outrage and it was the best thing i have done. Good luck

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