2000 X-Star - 2nd battery installed recessed like the original?

[jamis0n]

I'm adding a second battery to my 2000 X-Star and am wondering if anyone has looked into recessing it just like the original one is under the passenger seat.

(I know there is an extensive dual battery thread, but that is for electrical wiring. I just wanna know about physical placement)

I cant tell if there is space there to add one or if the existing cutout is custom molded and another one just wont fit.

If it wont fit, do you think its safe to screw in some tie downs on either side?

Extra battery box:


Installed on the floor here:

[brucemac]

Other's may chime in, but I don't think it's possible. I think you risk cutting into the stringers or other critical structure. You should be fine screwing down a battery box strap though with a small short stainless screw. I have a group 29 right in front my starter battery and then the blue sea ACR and switch is mounted to the observer seat base wall (facing bow).

[waterlogged882]

^ +1

I use old life jacket cinches for a strap. Much easier than the clumsy friction grip setup that comes with the battery boxes.

1/2" floor thickness... an easy install.... two different builds I did but the same life jacket buckle concept.

$0.02

Your mileage may vary.

.

[curver900]

I put mine way up by the front seat.. you have to "crawl" in to the bay to work on it but there is room for all the goodies like life jackets and towels and the extinguisher... I used the black box along with the strap too... works great..

I thought about what you are thinking too.. to risky for me...

[Endurance]

I see why you would want to recess the second battery. The recess on the first one looks good and saves valuable storage space.

The existing tray looks like it is screwed in place. If you can remove those screws and look around with a flashlight and maybe a mirror, you should be able to see if a second battery will fit. You might have to build a plastic tray large enough for the two batteries, but that shouldn't be too tough for a plastic fabricator.

[Rossterman]

I see why you would want to recess the second battery. The recess on the first one looks good and saves valuable storage space.

The existing tray looks like it is screwed in place. If you can remove those screws and look around with a flashlight and maybe a mirror, you should be able to see if a second battery will fit. You might have to build a plastic tray large enough for the two batteries, but that shouldn't be too tough for a plastic fabricator.

That sure looks like a doable approach. Seems like there wouldn't be much more cutout required to set both side by side. Tough part would be finding a tray that looks right. Maybe from a later model?

[curver900]

I have had it out.. it is interesting... in there..

mine holds water... I don't know why...

[Aquaholic]

I believe there are no drain holes in the holder to prevent any acid going into the bilge if the battery failed and leaked.