Securing Your Batteries.

[papajoe222]

I added a third battery to my boat when I upgraded my trolling motor to 24V.  I love the new motor, but I'm not happy with the way the batteries are secured (a strap)  I'd much prefer some style of clamp down mount and was wondering if there is a tray of some sort that is made for that purpose.  I haven't had any issues over the past eight years with the strap securing the battery, I'd just think a sturdier bracket would reduce vibration and in doing so, extend the life of the batteries.

[Kevin22]

Yeah, mine are like that. I have no idea what they are called, but they have a clamp that goes around the battery with a screw on top to hold it tight. They are out there! 

[SGTGunner]

Does your battery tray have enough room to drill a couple holes and use the automotive style J hook hold downs? If not how about replacing the tray with an automotive one? Most auto stores have "universal" trays for around $10-15.

[Fishing Rhino]

The tighter you clamp a battery will increase the vibrations transmitted to the battery.  It will however reduce the shock when batteries thump up and down due to the slack.

 

Here's what I'd suggest.  Get a silicone mat to place under the batteries.  You can find silicone hot mats at home goods stores such as Bed Bath and Beyond.  You will probably need two for each battery.  Get the mats with ribs. or honeycomb.  They will do the best job of dampening shocks and vibrations.

 

Silicone is impervious to oil, gasoline, and the fumes that batteries emit when they are being charged. 

 

It is difficult to get the snap together straps snug.  So, get a nylon cutting board, cut it into three or four inch wide pieces and bevel one end.  Then, insert the wedge between the strap and the battery.  Make it long enough to span three or four cells.  You do not want the pressure concentrated in one small area. 

 

Cutting boards are available in various thicknesses.  Adjust the strap so that when you insert the spacer it's good and snug.  You should be able to insert the wedge easily.  If you have to force it, adjust the strap to have a little more slack before inserting the wedge.  Too loose, and the spacer will not stay in place.  It will take a bit of trial and error to get it right.

[Fishes in trees]

I've never had any issues using the straps.  However, several years ago I was in the boating section at BPS and I came across some round gel "shock absorbers" which were designed to be placed between the battery and the battery tray.  A side effect was that they made it a little easier to get the straps snug & tight, by compressing the shock absorbers a little bit.  Rhino's idea with the silicone mat serves the same purpose.