I need to remove my entire head and replace the hoses and 2 Y-valves. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to drain the hoses completely before removing them from their fittings. Even though mine has been pumped many times in an attempt to expel all fluid there seems to still be a fair amount in the hoses. I discover that when I loosen a clamp to start to remove them.
My biggest problem is the one that runs from the vented loop to the seacock. Another is one that runs from the overboard H. tank discharge pump to a Y-valve.
Also what's the best methods to disinfect this mess before and while working on it. I know using bleach is too caustic. Any precautions others take would be good to know about. This definately can't be healthy work.
Head Hoses
Moderator: Jim Walsh
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Bob Loewenstein
Re: Head Hoses
I've replaced my hoses, head, and removed the holding tank to clean it out. You can search the past articles on the bboard for details. A quick summary, though, is that the bottom 3-4" of the holding tank would not pump out (there is a non-flexible pipe on the inside of the tank that should be positioned to stay fixed on the bottom...mine wasn't). So after disconnecting the 3 hoses (input, output and vent), I wrapped plasticwrap around the holes, and kept them in place with several rubber bands. I then CAREFULLY lifted the tank (15 gallons) out of the cabin and lowered it to the ground (the boat was on its cradle) via some ropes. Once out where there was room to work, and after removing the waste in the tank (I won't go into the details), I cleaned things out with a bleach solution. I don't think it was too caustic at all. I let it sit overnight completely full with the mixture and rinsed many times.
As far at the hoses go, I had very little liquid to deal with. The replacement hoses were purchased at a boat store for about $5.00/foot..the very stiff white hose. Later I found the same hose at Home Depot for about half that price. The hoses were very stiff and difficult to route and attach to the thru-deck fitting.
After all this, we've had no problem with any odors, leaks, etc.
rfl@yerkes.uchicago.edu
As far at the hoses go, I had very little liquid to deal with. The replacement hoses were purchased at a boat store for about $5.00/foot..the very stiff white hose. Later I found the same hose at Home Depot for about half that price. The hoses were very stiff and difficult to route and attach to the thru-deck fitting.
After all this, we've had no problem with any odors, leaks, etc.
rfl@yerkes.uchicago.edu
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M. R. Bober
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Paul
Re: Head Hoses
Bob,I've replaced my hoses, head, and removed the holding tank to clean it out. You can search the past articles on the bboard for details. A quick summary, though, is that the bottom 3-4" of the holding tank would not pump out (there is a non-flexible pipe on the inside of the tank that should be positioned to stay fixed on the bottom...mine wasn't). So after disconnecting the 3 hoses (input, output and vent), I wrapped plasticwrap around the holes, and kept them in place with several rubber bands. I then CAREFULLY lifted the tank (15 gallons) out of the cabin and lowered it to the ground (the boat was on its cradle) via some ropes. Once out where there was room to work, and after removing the waste in the tank (I won't go into the details), I cleaned things out with a bleach solution. I don't think it was too caustic at all. I let it sit overnight completely full with the mixture and rinsed many times.
As far at the hoses go, I had very little liquid to deal with. The replacement hoses were purchased at a boat store for about $5.00/foot..the very stiff white hose. Later I found the same hose at Home Depot for about half that price. The hoses were very stiff and difficult to route and attach to the thru-deck fitting.
After all this, we've had no problem with any odors, leaks, etc.
My concern about using bleach was because I didn't want it to be too caustic for the Y-valve seals. You are right that it sholdn't have any negative effect on the tank and probably the hoses for that matter as well. I'm sure it would cause all sorts of problems inside a head pump assembly, perhaps not at first but certainly in time. Thanks for your comments.
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M. R. Bober
Re: Head Hoses & bleach
I would be careful about using bleach on stainless steel. Especially if the concentration is strong and/or if the contact will be prolonged.
Mitchell Bober
RESPITE
CD330
thebobers@erols.com
Mitchell Bober
RESPITE
CD330
thebobers@erols.com