hot/cold water valves under floorboard

[jgortych]

Happy New Year All! -

Just wondering if anyone has had to replace the hot and cold water T-valves that reside under the floorboard right in front of the engine. I looked at mine the other day just by chance and they were rusted and leaking. Was surprised that the valve stems were made of metal given their location.

Can anyone recommend replacement parts, especially ones that have no metal? Do I really need a valve there?

Also, if you haven't looked at these valves in a while, you might consider doing so.

Many Thanks!

Hull #54, Photon, Sarasota FL

 

[jsalley]

I had mine replaced under warranty the first year I owned the boat because of corrosion. Unfortunately they were replaced with the same petcocks. You do need them to drain the water lines to the stern shower for winterization (maybe not an issue in Sarasota). I need to replace mine again, and will look for some plastic valves. Whale makes them, though haven't researched them yet.

 

[jgortych]

Thanks John! I will be researching replacement valves and so will pass along to you and the Forum at large what I find out w/r to non-metal valve options...JG

 

[tahomathundr]

JG I had the same problem and replaced mine twice before I got fed up and replaced them with with a T- fitting that has 1/2" hose barbs on 2 ends and a 3/4" male thread on the third. Then get a nylon or bronze cap to seal the threaded fitting. I use bronze because that's all the marine store had. Then when you need to drain the system just remove the cap. Sea-tech makes the fittings and it cost less than 15 bucks for both waterlines. Mine has been in place for the past year and no rust or leaks. Whale makes fittings but the 15mm do not work for the hoses in my boat #20. You won't be sorry to get rid of those cheap petcocks. Good Luck Bob C-309 #20

 

[jgortych]

Thank you Bob! - JG

 

[Siamese]

I always winterize my system by running non toxic anti-freeze through the system. No draining required.

BUT....IMHO, the shower at the stern's a piece of crap. Mine leaked since new. What doesn't go in the bilge makes its way into the stern berth. I got the washers and o-rings to rebuild the valves in the stern shower. When I got done, it was just like new. Leaky!

I replaced the drains in the supply lines with a couple nice big, inexpensive, PVC shut off valves from the plumbing department at home depot. Very effective. Now I can shut off the supply to the crrrrapy shower.