Miscellaneous ramblings on head replacement
Pat, Did your tank rupture or do you suspect it is permeated? I tried to find a suitable replacement tank a couple of years ago when I redid the head. This was the first thing I did after I bought the boat, 'cause it was in horrible shape. Ended up replacing everything except the holding tank as all the hoses were permeated and the toilet was very ratty. During the course of this rebuild I did take out the holding tank to rebuild the plywood mounting bracket. The manufacturer's label was still on the tank, and if I remember right it was made by Perko...Rudy would know for sure. If it was Perko, they are not in the business (of holding tanks) any longer that I can tell. Fortunately I was able to reuse the tank because you are right, it is an oddball size. I took the tank home, filled it with clorox bleach and water, and let it sit for a couple of weeks. Rebedded the fittings and put it back in with a better bracket. For a while I was getting odors but I finally figured out that the vent fitting was still loose and rebedded it again. That and constant treatment with Odorlod, and I am not having any issues. As you have no doubt discovered, the key to the tank size is manuvering it in and out of the hole under the forward berth. The closest thing I have found to our tank is a Ronco Marine tank that is 14.75" wide, 9.5" high, and 27.5" long. I think this will fit but my boat is in storage now and I can't get up there today to measure. The best way to know for sure would be to make a cardboard mock-up and try it. My plan, if I have to replace the tank, is to use this Ronco tank, assuming it fits, and widen the bracket to accomidate 14.75". Of course, a drop-in would be nice, so if you do find a replacement post it, as I am sure there will be other takers - may even drive down the cost if you have to get it custom-molded. My only other word of caution is that disassembling a 20 year old marine head is no joke - it is one of the nastiest things I've ever had to do. Short of access to a full chem/bio-hazard suit, make sure you wear at least rubber gloves and a mask. Best of luck to you in your quest. Happy Holidays. Bob s/v Simple Dreams Chicago
