every M15 is a bit different. M15 #288 has both cockpit lockers open to the hull (no wet lockers). LOTS of space to store items. i've pu a a group 24 batt like the graves w/their old M15 in the bow locker. the battery and the box fit snugly between the foam and keel steel hump (#288 is a steel ballast boat). i like the setup as when i'm in the stern the battery weight is a nice counter balance to my 200lbs (and the outboard and other stuff in the stern). i didn't remove any form 'chucks', just moved two or three and shoved them back into the mix with others to make room for the batt & box. i believe that putting the anchor, chain and line that far forward so it isn't quickly accessible and can get water into a no-ventilated part of the cabin i a poor choice. add to the list getting the cushions covered in sand/mud & wet. my anchors (i carry two) chain and 250' of line are in the starboard cockpit locker. the anchor sits in the bottom of the locker with the line/chain in a mesh diving bag (so the line/chain will dry) on top. al water coming from the anchor, chain and line drains into the M15's bilge and easily pumped out. i launch and retrieve the anchor from the cockpit. when 'on the hook' i then go to the bow and set the link on the bow cleat with a loop of line around the mast foot as backup to the cleat and me not keeping a firm hand on the line when playing with the anchor. pictures available on request of my cockpit lockers. some with my batt box, anchor & bags etc. dave scobie M15 #288, not yet named. kdocter@bellsouth.net wrote: Kendall replying to Gary and Doug, Thanks for your input. About the foam. I certainly don't wish to lower the value of the Monty. I wasn't looking to expand the area, only replace the area Jerry had already placed Styrofoam. If I filled the cavity in the bow (filled in the space where there are gaps between the chunks of Styrofoam) I think I would gain enough room to use the area normally screwed closed, forward of the potty area, as storage for my anchor and rode. So my new question is...If I pass on the spray foam idea, can I remove 1.4 cubic feet of Styrofoam from the forward compartment and be okay? Can I relocate it to another location, maybe hot glue it to the bottom of my cabin floor above the bilge? That way it would still be there...centered, out of the way, just aft of normal. What does everybody think? Kendall M-15 #164 --------------------------------- Never miss a thing. Make Yahoo your homepage.