Waterproof battery-box/GPS/VHF setup

[bkils@mac.com]

I decided to put electronics on my Avon Searider 4m, and since it's usually a pretty wet ride I wanted the entire system to be self contained and waterproof. I didn't really find any plans on the internet, so I thought to post my setup here in case anyone is looking for ideas.

The VHF and the GPS units power/data cables are individually connected to the pelican battery box with waterproof 6-pin connectors. It's wired so that the VHF pulls/sends DSC info from/to the GPS.

I spent $167.92 total on the battery box. In addition I purchased these two units:

VHF: ICOM IC-M412 Class D (waterproof IPX 6 rating) -- $199.99
GPS: Raymarine A70d (waterproof IPX 7 rating) -- $899.99

If you want more info you can email me at bkils@mac.com.
-- Bjoern

[Nos4r2]

That's a nice setup. How big a battery are you using as the peli case looks quite small? Is that a pull start, no PTT outboard?

Oh, and how did you vent the battery/case? If it's not vented, it's going to build up some nasty gases in there.

[benc]

I have a case like that, it has a vent on it which lets air out, but not water in.. its designed as a secure laptop case and is meant to be able to be fully waterproof.... I havent tested it though!

[Stoo]

Originally Posted by Nos4r2

Oh, and how did you vent the battery/case? If it's not vented, it's going to build up some nasty gases in there.

Pelican cases have a slick little relieve valve in them. Way back when, this valve as basically a bolt with an O-ring. The new ones have a Gore-tex membrane in them that requires no adjustment, but keeps water vapour out. It should work both ways as pressure builds up.

[Nos4r2]

Originally Posted by Stoo

Pelican cases have a slick little relieve valve in them. Way back when, this valve as basically a bolt with an O-ring. The new ones have a Gore-tex membrane in them that requires no adjustment, but keeps water vapour out. It should work both ways as pressure builds up.

So it'll clear Hydrogen by osmosis eventually? (actually, I guess it'd be quite quick-Hydrogen atoms are somewhat smaller than Oxygen or Nitrogen IIRC)

[bkils@mac.com]

Originally Posted by Nos4r2

That's a nice setup. How big a battery are you using as the peli case looks quite small? Is that a pull start, no PTT outboard?

Oh, and how did you vent the battery/case? If it's not vented, it's going to build up some nasty gases in there.

Thanks! It's a 12V 7AH Sealed Lead Acid Battery. I keep the case open when charging and the pelican 1150 case does have a vent valve -- you can see it on the photo in between the two bulkhead connectors. As for the outboard, it's a 40HP pull start so there is no existing on-board battery. The battery powers the VHF and GPS w/ fishfinder for about 7 hours (standing by on CH16 without transmissions).

I created a detailed Excel parts list that I can email to anyone interested.