I had so much weight in the back that the boat would plane out then start hopping.I had a 40 on it at the time with no trim.Went to a 50 Tohatsu with trim and the batteries up front and got on plane fine and trimmed it to where it was a smooth ride.Haven't had any probs with the batteries and have used them for 2 yrs. that way!I think I'm gonna put them in battery boxes with a lid the next time I get a chance.