I'm working on my boat (17.5' Mod V Jon with a 175 Sport Jet) ... I want to remove the center console and put in 'stick steering' ... The problem I'll have is, "where do I put the batteries ?" ... The engine box is as small as allowable and has no room ... On the stern is a 'kicker' and Lenko trollers ... I can't put any more weight back there ... Putting the batts. in the bow would be too far a run ... BUT ... Optima makes a 3 cell 6 volt unit that I could mount mid ship between the side ribs, wire in series and go for it ... Can they survive in that location ??? ... AND ... The price of a 6 cell 12 volt is cheaper than two half size batteries ... Can I split a 6 cell in half to meet the room constraints and save some money??? ... Should I leave things alone or does anybody have other brainstorms or opinions ???? ... THANKS!!