So, building on  the info. compiled from my previous posting (Batteries 12V vs 6V), I will be changing out my batteries and possibly expanding capacity. When I do this, I also want to change out my "battery box" for a new one.  The current one is very rusted and in poor shape.  I may also want to enlarge it to allow for future expansion of the battery bank.
Here are my 2 questions:

1.  Does anyone know where I can purchase "prefabricated" battery boxes.  I use the term battery box, but I don't know if that is accurate.  It is really more like a metal box or very deep "pan".  My batteries are stored in a metal bin/box/compartment underneath a section of my outside deck, near the engine area.  It is a simple metal pan/box attached to the frame of the houseboat.  It sits above the water, under the deck.  The lid is just an operable part of the topside deck.   I'd like to find a prefabricated metal box that I can use to replace the current one.  In lieu of this, I may just have one made to my dimensions from a local sheetmetal shop.  If I get it made what is the best material - GSM, steel, Stainless?

2.  In cases where I may want to charge my 6V batteries using a portable 120V charger, what is the right way to do it.  I assume I must disconnect the batteries completely - from one another and from the solar charger.  Then charge each battery one at a time, with the charger set on 6-volt mode.  Correct??  Or, is there a way to leave them connected in series and charge them both at the same time using the 12-v setting on my charger?  

Since welding,fabricating, are parts of my business (muffler shop) I built my own box for my inverter batteries from 16ga. steel. Then took box to Rhino Lining dealer and had it coated so it's now basically a metal reinforced plastic box. If you're using standard size batteries and having custom cables build, I'd try to get the properly sized boxes from "Blue Sea Systems".


As long as 6v's are hooked in series to make 12v,,,your charger won't know how many batteries it's hooked to. Good chance you aint got near enough charger though!

Bob

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I carry a gun because it's too tiring carrying a cop.

Built mine of 3/4" plywood, glassed on the inside and resin all over. Holds 6 golf batteries. It's deeper than the batteries and has a lid to protect them. Vents in the sides near the top to vent.

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Willie
She's a tired old barge but she's paid for! http://s71.photobucket.com/alb...p;current=ef324993.pbw

We did the same as stmbtwle and we hold 8 golf carters. Only dif is that we mounted our box on front deck under the ladder-way.

On the charging, we have an external charger connected to the 115v circuit with a switch. All we need do is start the genny, the proper switching is done, and the batteries are all charged within 10 minutes. We have never run the batteries down, but since we are 100% solar, if we are on the water for more than 5 to 6 days we will practice this charging procedure every two days just for peace of mind.

Skally

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Chance Favors The Prepared Mind!