Aft Holding Tank on 1985 Hunter 40'

[Jo Ann Stebbins]

We are considering purchase of a 1985 Hunter 40'. There is much discussion about leakage from the top of the aft holding tank. Has anyone actually had this occur? Has anyone executed a successful repair to the aft sewage tank? What did you have to do to repair the tank?

 

[Peggie Hall HeadMistress]

It's not practical to repair it...if it's metal--and it likely is on an '80s Hunter--the leak you see is only one of many that urine is turning the tank into a colander. If it's plastic, no sealant will bond to it, so it would most likely have to be re-welded, which would prob'ly require removing the tank to do it. If the survey finds that to be the only problem, don't let it be a deal killer, just make replacing it a condition of sale. Getting rid of any residual odor after you take possession will be easy and inexpensive.

 

[nfg2u]

http://www.ronco-plastics.com

I recently replaced my aluminum holding tank on a 1990 35.5 Legend with a Ronco Plastic Tank. Price out the entire system, you will want to replace most of it if your going to be replacing the tank. Read Peggies book, thats really all you will need as far as "sanitation" info goes. "The NEW Get Rid of Boat Odors"

Here is a link to photos of my install and my old aluminum tank.
http://forums.sailboatowners.com/index.php?threads/1990-legend-35-5-holding-tank.178114/

 

[Peggie Hall HeadMistress]

Could have said it better m'self! I thank you and my publisher thanks you!

And btw, Jo Ann...if you do buy this boat and need some one-on-one help working out the "kinks" in the sanitation system, I'll be glad to help you.

 

[40 South]

We are considering purchase of a 1985 Hunter 40'. There is much discussion about leakage from the top of the aft holding tank. Has anyone actually had this occur? Has anyone executed a successful repair to the aft sewage tank? What did you have to do to repair the tank?

Hi Jo Anne, I have repaired my aft holding tank , 1986 Hunter 40. The tank is a built in fibreglass housing with a 'glassed on top. To effect a reliable repair you must remove the sole in front of the chart table/aft head to gain access to the top of the tank and the sides of the seat and cupboard under the chart table (see image #1). If you look closely you may find areas of fibreglass holding the tank top on have let go allowing smells to escape. In my case a corner of the 'glassing for the tank top had not been attached and was folded back (see image #2)! I ground and cut out these areas and re-glassed the top of the tank…. no more smells! Replace the sole and and other panels and away you go.

 

[Jo Ann Stebbins]

Thank you so much for your reply!
And thank you to all who responded earlier regarding aft tanks -
We are still learning how to use this forum.