Hi Steve: The original battery location on my M17 was under the port berth, but it was too small for the monster battery I just bought for Tiny Dancer.(1000AH- at least it's a monster to me) Since the battery weighs 55 lbs, I figure it's pretty good ballast, so I've built a high-sided box of epoxy and glass-covered plywood, and epoxied that along the centerline of the boat just forward of the mast support under the Vberth. The battery is a little harder to get to, but it should work a little better than the stock setup with regards to trim. It'll be harder to check the water in it's new location, but it's well secured and should stay in place. Best BG -- Brian Gilbert Marine Media Author, Fix It and Sail (423)876-9990 3404 Hartford Drive Chattanooga, TN 37415 www.sailingsmall.com