Head Plumbing Problem

[Tim Dranttel]

I have an '86 30 T/R. When I flush the head the stantion outside the bathroom port starts spewing foul smelling stuff. Based on the plumbing the only way this can happen is when the holding tank is full. I had the tank pumped...no change. It doesn't matter if I have the Y valve set to go to the tank or directly overboard. This defies all logic! Am I missing something or do I have multiple problems?Tim

 

[Bill B.]

Nedd clarification

I need you to clarify your original post. Does the stantion actually spew effulent or just a foul odor?

 

[Todd Osborne]

I bet you (still) have a full tank

Lines and valves can clog, even your pump out lines. Especially when they are full of crap (pun?). You'll have to clear them. Backflushing is possible but real risky if things clear violently, try a good pumpout station with lots of suction first.

 

[Leo Brown]

head problem

Had a similar problem, odor, poor flushing action. I knew from the owner's manual that the holding tank vent is located in that stantion and it appeared to be blocked. I used my engine oil changing pump and connected it to the vent hose which I had just removed. It only took a couple of pump strokes to remove some liquid from the vent. Aparently there is a sag in the vent line somewhere out of sight and if the boat heels w/ a full tank liq. can enter the vent. I've had no problems since.

 

[Ken]

I just puchased the Catalina 30 Tall Rig and had the same issue. The toilet kept filling up and when I pumped hard it went out the vent pipe.Actually had the tank pumped but filled right up. Sat at the dock with some friends and finally someone noticed that the thru hull valve for the Macerator was open and I was sucking the water back in. Ran the macerator (Sea water only) closed the valve and no further issues - Just an idea for you.

 

[Ed]

Open wet flush

Leo is probably right, and Ken's story could be true also.Are you leaving the wet flush on the head open. My first experience with the new boat including filling the holding tank within an hour because we left the wet flush on.Just a thought.Ed

 

[Ron P]

Same Problem

I also had the same problem this spring. I cleaned out the vent and made sure the tank really "pumped out" when I pumped it. If the vent is blocked the vacuum created when you go to pump out will cause flow to stop even though the tank isn't empty. Then, only one or two trips to the head will fill the tank back up again. I haven't had a problem since but occasionally check the vent. If you look in the "expert forums" section there is a good good info about vent maintenance, amongst other things by Peggy "The Head Mistress". Sorry to hear about your problem but I'm, glad to hear I'm not the only one....Ron P