12V battery question

[Hooked]

I have a battery question. I will be mounting a transom mount trolling motor onto a 14' aluminum boat and will be connecting to a 12V battery. Are there any problems that I may encounter if I don't have a battery case for it? Is it required or can I leave it exposed? Just wondering. Any help appreciated.

Edited August 12, 2010 by Hooked

[walleyejack]

Nice to have it covered, but the terminals need to be covered in the event of metal touching them and having a short.

[ld17]

if the battery is sealed you will have no problem leaving it open. If not I would get a box.