[Matta0413]

I have a 2002 3100 Open. The house batteries are located on the port side of the boat under the seat in the cockpit. That puts all 4 of my batteries on the same side of the boat. My boat tends to list to the port side as the head, refridge, holding tank etc.. are also all on that side. I was thinking about moving the house batteries to the other side of the boat. My options are under the helm seat or in the engine compartment aft of the fresh water tank. The only thing with doing that is if there is ever a problem with the house batteries how will I open the engine compartment to get at the batteries if the lift motor is not getting power? How are other 31's and 33's configured??

[jclark003]

I would put the batteries in whatever location that safely gives you balance and access. Would recommend doing some research on how to properly mount and vent battery boxes and secure wiring so as to remain USCG compliant. In terms of power loss, in a pinch you can supply backup power to the vessel by taking a 12v source (spare battery or jumper box, etc) and connect it to any ship 12v system (12v breaker, parallel switch, etc). That will back feed power into the house system as long as the disconnect switches and breakers are closed and the 12v- /ground is connected to any ship ground. For that matter you could run the 12v lead right to the hatch switch.

[Lafobrian@gmail.com]

I just purchased my 1999 31 boat and the previous owner moved the batteries so there are 2 ahead of the holding tank on the port side and 2 aft of the water tank on the starboard side. The problem is when the water tank has water in it it now lists a bit to that side. Water tank is empty it stays level