Pre-EC R21 Fuel Tank / Battery Locations

[ron cowan]

Upon having bilge pump problems, I found that removal or checkout of the pump required moving the fuel tank which first required removal of the batteries. At this point there was no power to check out the pump which required reconnecting a battery for power. My question is, has anyone found a good solution or location for batteries and fuel tank which allows a straight forward access to the bilge pump and stuffing box shaft seal? On the EC the fuel tank is under the rear seat but I have been unable to locate a tank that will fit down in this area without cutting glass to install it. Todate I have relocated my batteries to the rear seat area and it really opened the access to the stuffing box. I am wondering if others have taken a different approach that is better for getting into the bilge area. Saddle fuel tanks would be good under the gunnels or maybe you have different solutions
Any thoughts???
Thanks Ron