Re: [omc-boats] battery support foam block

This is an interesting topic. OMC was an "early adopter" in helping to set
the industry standards for "level" floatation when swamped at full-rated
load capacity.

Originally this "extra" rear area floatation wasn't critical on the early
17's and 16's with the relatively lightweight 2-stroke V4 outboards and
sterndrives.

But with the added rear weight of the V6 and V8's the rear floatation
"blocks" were added to keep a swamped boat level.

Mine were also fairly beat up and I removed them when I did the V8
re-powering project. From a safety standpoint this may have been foolhardy
and I don't recommend it. (The V8 added about 80 lbs) Is the boat now
suddendly going to sink? No. It will mostly likely ride bow-high if it ever
gets swamped. (I also installed a new (higher capacity) bilge pump with
auto-sensor.) I also carry manual (hand) bailing pumps and buckets.

It's a judgement call but I too, needed the storage space. And it also makes
me think twice about getting into situations where the stern might take on a
lot of water.
If you boat does ever become swamped, try to move the passengers forward
(but remember to stay with the boat).

Lee

----- Original Message -----
From: Ryan Moore
To: omc-boats@...
Sent: Tuesday, May 01, 2007 11:33 AM
Subject: [omc-boats] battery support foam block

B.C. wrote "there is a ledge on the stbd. side where the battery and an
accessory/tool box usually go."

The foam that is directly under the battery and tool box, how important is
this foam? Mice have gotten into mine in the past and I was considering
replacing the tool box area with a live well.
1. Will the foam save the boat from sinking?
2. Do you think the bait would survive a days worth of fishing in
this environment?
3. Anyone have a better location for a live well?

Ryan

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Received on Tuesday, 1 May 2007