Head Replacement

[Steve]

Peggy,I would like to update the potty system on my '86 Catalina 30 SR. I know you've previously recommeded both the Raritan PHII and Cricket model heads for this boat. Two questions: 1) what is involved in mounting one of these two models to the sole of the C30 (adapters, other gizmos?, etc.) and 2) what other elements of the system (if any) would you recommend I replace? Has anyone documented a step-by-step procedure for performing this kind of changeout?Thanks,Steve

 

[Peggie Hall/Head Mistress]

Not difficult at all

All toilets are secured with lagbolts, so no need for any access below the sole and they all mount the same way. Just disconnect the intake and discharge hoses from the one you've got (you might want to close the seacocks first <g>), loosen the mounting bolts, and lift it out. Fill the holes left by the previous toilet and follow the directions that come with the new one for mounting it. Reconnect your hoses and you're done. Depending upon the condition of your hoses, now would be good time to replace those too.

 

[Steve]

What about the holding tank?

Thanks Peggy,What about the holding tank, macerator, and Y-valves?

 

[Peggie Hall/Head Mistress]

Unless they're broke, don't fix 'em

If your holding tank is metal, now would be a good time to replace it with a good quality plastic one. But if it's plastic, unless it's cracked or definitely permeated, there's no reason to. If your macerator is working, you might replace the impeller as preventive maintenance...always better to take it apart when it's clean than when the tank is full and it doesn't work. But as long as it's not leaking and the motor is strong, no reason to replace the whole thing. Lube the new impeller liberally with teflon grease.Same is true of your y-valve(s)...if they're not leaking, lube 'em and put 'em back.