Holding tank filled up while sailing

[MH]

I was recently working on macerator pump, left the thru hull valve open then went sailing. I later noticed that the "tank full" light was on and the toilet was half full of river water. We werent heeled over at all that day. I know the valve should have been closed but shouldnt there be an anti siphon loop to prevent this?

Thanks

89 MkII

 

[Brad Woodward]

No the tank & head are below the water line. Water can come in as the tank is vented. It may mean you need to replace the exit valve from the head to the tank however. At least you know the vent isn't clooged. Oh yea the hose from the tank through the pump & out the hull is all below the water line so there is no anti siphon valve. At least there isn't in my boat. (86).

 

[MH]

Is the valve part of the pump assembly? I recently replaced the entire pump assembly.

 

[jonelli]

MH, I think he's referring to the joker valve. I just replaced mine, it's easy. You have to do it every so often as they wear out. it's what keeps the waste in the holding tank from coming back into your head.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqYkXa5AWe8

I just replaced my macerator pump as well, so this post was interesting to me. Although I never thought to leave that valve open, as it's against the law to let waste out in inner waters. Now I know for SURE keep it closed at all times! lol

But, I have another question for you that has me boggled...
What >>>tank full" light <<< are you talking about and where is it??? I have an 87 mkII, should I have one? I've never seen it yet. I really want one though!

 

[Brad Woodward]

MH, I think he's referring to the joker valve. I just replaced mine, it's easy. You have to do it every so often as they wear out. it's what keeps the waste in the holding tank from coming back into your head.

Thanks I couldn't think of the name of the valve. I replaced that and all the o-rings in the head pump.

Not sure I want to repair a full sensor on a holding tank if I had one. I sail in the ocean and empty my tank somewhere beyond the 3 mile limit often, just to keep it empty.

 

[Brad Woodward]

Is the valve part of the pump assembly? I recently replaced the entire pump assembly.

Yes it is the black rubber thing that goes between the pump and the hose leading to the holding tank. It looks like it is pinched closed, which it is. TP can get stuck in it causing it to leak which is why many captains don't like it put into the head. My wife uses lots of water to flush to make sure it doesn't. So far I haven't had to replace it since I first got the boat.

 

[jonelli]

So far I haven't had to replace it since I first got the boat.

It's not just TP that messes it up. Its ability to stay closed and keep its shape deteriorates over time and it doesn't close and seal up as well as it should.
They're only meant to last a couple of years max with normal use. I was getting slow "backwash" from my flushes until I changed it, and you could clearly see that the old one wasn't sealing up all the way tight, it was worn out.
After putting in a new one, I get ZERO backflow and the toilet stays empty.

I also only put fresh water in it for flushing. No smell at all. :dance:

 

[MH]

Someone asked about the full light. I didnt put it in but it is in the head. It only tells you when it is full. I recently saw a product that is taped to the outside of the tank and senses how much is in the tank. It also works on the water tanks.

The head pump directions say to turn the pump handle to the lock position. Does this also prevent the back flow? I may not always do this.

 

[jonelli]

The head pump directions say to turn the pump handle to the lock position. Does this also prevent the back flow? I may not always do this.

It's supposed to, but mine didn't when the joker valve needed replacing. I still had backflow even with the handle in the locked position. It probably means I need to service the pump - now that I think about it... great, thanks!

You could probably use one of these:
http://www.amazon.com/Jabsco-290453000-Kit-Major-Service/dp/B002IZJ6QY

I already have a new joker valve, so I should probably get the kit anyway, service the pump and keep the spare joker valve for the next time.

 

[jonelli]

On my wish list now...
http://www.sailorssolutions.com/index.asp?page=ProductDetails&Item=TM01

 

[Bob S]

I ordered one of these to install over the winter

http://www.adventurerv.net/see-leve...rtsfeed_ppc&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=Froogle

It monitors 3 tanks and LPG. It was recommended on the C30 Yahoo site. Sure beats guessing

 

[MH]

I have this on order already.

 

[jonelli]

Bob/MH, you guys both have existing sensors in your tank?

 

[Bob S]

It comes with three external tank monitor strips. It was reviewed by David on the yahoo site. I like the set up.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1wHfjsY0rl4&feature=youtu.be

 

[Fogg]

On my wish list now... http://www.sailorssolutions.com/index.asp?page=ProductDetails&Item=TM01

I've had a Scad tank monitor for several years and my cruise planning is simpler with pump out scheduling more predictable. The monitor has been spot on consistently. Worth every penny.

 

[MH]

Mine was there when purchased. Not sure if original. Only lights up when "full".