The boat in question is a 1990 Hourston 17' I believe when these hulls were built, they were intended to be ran with a modestly powered 2 stroke. Since then, we have started using heavier 4 stroke outboards and using 100lb plus kicker engines. I'm sure it's fair to say that in general, we add much more weight to our hulls at the stern than what they were originally designed for. My idea of moving the batteries forward would be to compensate for this change to the original design and hopefully produce a more level ride, as opposed to the squat that I am anticipating with a 115hp four stroke, a T8, 24 gallons of fuel and 2 batteries directly in the stern.
Regarding the idea of adding sandbags or concrete blocks to balance trim seems illogical and inefficient to me. Why add weight and decrease economy when a necessary component move could do the same thing, with merely an upgrade to cable thickness?
I do appreciate everybody's input and this is why these forums are so great. It really allows a broad spectrum of idea sharing. Thank you all.