230 Engine hatch difference from '08 to newer models?

[Miljack]

I need to do some work on my engine hatch/cover on my '08 230, and I've noticed that starting in '09, the 230's appear to no longer use the "Perko" style of twist latch to secure the engine hatch, could someone with a newer model comment on how the engine hatch is secured?
I've also noticed that the battery location has changed on the newer boats, no longer in front of the engine in the aluminum cradle, could a newer owner also share where the batteries are stowed in a 230?

thanks,

[BT]

The engine hatch is secured by rubber straps that that attach over a peg on the hatch. The batteries are under the rear most port and starboard seat bottoms.

[tgator96]

Do you mean the actual engine cover or the latches for the lockers on either side of the engine? I don't have much experience with the older 230s but I believe the Perko latches you mentioned above are what I had on my old 210. Our new 230 has a plastic latch kinda similar to a car door handle to open the lockers and it's located under the cushion rather than on top like on my old 210.

As for the engine cover (which also covers the rear lockers--the locker hatches are built in to the cover) it lifts with a nylon pull and can be secured with two rubber straps accessed through the locker hatches.

As for the batteries, they are located underneath the port and starboard bench cushions just in front of the rear lockers.

Hope that helps. If i remember, I'll try to take a few pics this weekend.

[Miljack]

Ok thanks for the replies thus far, makes sense to me but pics are worth a thousand words...
What do you guys think about the functionality of reaching in to release the engine hatch? The latch ring helps me to lift the engine hatch, thinking that I want to keep it easy to access the engine frequently for visuals and oil level checks.
Got it on the batteries.

thanks,

[tgator96]

Honestly, i've never secured the rubber straps. We boat in some pretty rough water and it doesn't budge. I really don't think you need them. you just pull up on the nylon strap and the whole cover come right up.