Head Replacement

[David Thimble]

This spring I am going to replace the head and all the hoses on my (87)H31.Looking for a recomadation for a manual head,also would like to pick up your book,is it out yet and were can I find it.

 

[Laura Bertran]

Raritan PHII

I installed one in my H31 last Winter. It's highly rated by Practical Sailor, it's a good fit for the H31 and I'm very happy with the quality, so far.

 

[Brian]

I went budget this time

My friend had a Raritan on his old boat. It was old, old enough that when the seal on the pump went, and sea water squirted on your hand as you pumped, it was not an unreasonable amount of time for it to wear out. All head companies have rebuild kits readily available, which means they all wear out eventually. For me, it seemed to be a question of whether or not a more expensive head is worth it for the amount I use it. I decided to try the Jabsco cheapy, on sale for $119.99. So far so good. It works just as well as the Raritan (an old one anyway, I have never used a new Raritan) and if it lasts five years I will be happy. A new pump assembly is $109, so I should be OK for years and years (knock on wood) still having spent less. Unfortunately, only time will tell if I have made a mistake, the Raritan has always recieved high praises so you can't go wrong if you have the budget.

 

[Peggie Hall/HeadMistress]

Rebuild kit prevents toilet from wearing out

Age wasn't the cause of the leaks in your friend's PH II, Brian...neglect was. A well-maintained PH II will last 20 years or even longer, compared to about 5-7 years average lifespan for a Jabsco.All toilets have rubber seals and valves that wear out MUCH faster than the hardware should. Rebuild kits only include those parts, and rebuilding a toilet should be a part of scheduled boat maintenance every few years. Although all toilets have a lifespan--some shorter than others--lack of proper lubrication and timely rebuilding shortens it considerably, and results in leaks and other problems. Failure to keep it properly lubricated is the worst culprit, because lack of lubrication shortens the time between the need for rebuilding even more and wears other parts of the toilet to the point where rebuilding often won't help. To answer David's question about which head and hose: I second the PH II recommendation. I'd use SeaLand "OdorSafe" brand hose for all the 1.5", Shields or Trident for other sizes (OdorSafe is only available in 1.5").