Thanks Lou, that's good advice. I have some breadboarding and prototyping experience plus some technical background so this all seems do-able to me... and frankly a lot of fun.
I really enjoy the reliability, serviceability and packaging design part. Since its a one-of-a-kind project its fun because there are fewer cost restrictions. The biggest challenge that I anticipate is getting suitable/weatherproof connectors and suitable heatsinking material... the hunt begins
I was thinking of locating it under the battery box and away from the rectifier for access and cooling reasons. I would never have considered placing it under the tank... something to think about though.
When I get this done, some time during the winter, I plan to share it with the membership... hopefully with photo's and colour commentary. That way others may get inspired and come up with their own implementations.
Thanks to all... this was a good thread.