IT LEAKS?

[Alan]

So, I closed on a '94 26 last week and it went in the water a day ago. I came to clean it up today. After reading other posts I realized that it would be prudent to remove all the water from the bilges. Good thing I did as one of the wires from the float switch on the bilge pump was green powder for 2 inches (does not conduct to well!). Anyhow, I found a wet spot under the sink behind the door at the base of the cabinet where it joins the floor. After drying the area several times it became apparent that each time the boat was rocked to starboard, a small amount of water would appear in the area. It tasted salty and appeared clear (clean?). Well I assume that there is a ballast tank leak probably around there. Going to get food dye and place it in the tank to be sure. What kind of work will the repair entail? How much $? My contract with the dealer (authorized Hunter dealer too) calls for the vessel to be delivered in working order so I assume that he will fix it. Otherwise all looks well can't wait to sail.

 

[Dave Condon]

Leak, what type

There are sevearl areas to be checked.the first cuprit is the compression post area. lift up the boards or cover plates at the base of the compression post. Make sure there are two screws in the base about one inch up and caulked where screwed into. One is on the front and the other on the back of the base. If there are none, I believe #10 will work or it might be #12 but believe #10. Then check the caulking around the base of the metal plate against the top of the center board. The only way to make sure the leaks are from this area are to be under way via motor and or sailing on both tacks and you will need to observe. Otherwise, get about 6-8 buzzle butts like me and have them stand on the front of the boat and then on the rear.lThe only other place will be the wing nut to allow the water into the ballasttank. Make sure there is a gasket underneath. Make sure the drain bail plug to allow air to enter the chamber is tight too. One of the two is your source.Crazy Dave

 

[Steve]

Do What Dave Says... and hope!

Let's hoper that your leak can be traced to the points where Dave indicated. He is correct, as these are the most common and likely spots. I had each location leak at one time or another. If not, double check again, you might want to sail a bit as my compression post would never leak unless i was really moving. The water would then collect in the grid area under the teak sole and drive you crazy trying to figure where it was coming from. Another remote chance is the three thru hull fittings that can leak if your healing just so and their loose or the hose is not tight. Check to be sure the bildge pump hose is not back siphoning. Needs that air trap (like your washing machine)to prevent.Good luck.. let us know your findings.. it will help the next guy!!!Steve

 

[Alan]

still checking

Well, added food dye to the tank, rocked the boat and the water coming from under the galley area was still clear for the five or so hours I was there. However, when I returned three days latter the water in the ballast tank was clear (I had closed the tank inlet so I guess something in the salt water "ate" the dye). I figured out how to remove the plate under the table covering the compression post but did not do so yet. Looked there with a light and did not see rust or moisture. The drain plug was not tight and there is no rubber seal under the wing nut for the ballast tank fitting so I suppose water could have leaked when the boat was placed in the water. Remember though, it has not been sailed yet. The dealer seems to think that this is water that previously "got into the boat" and now only needs to dry out. We will see! thanks for the responses. I'll let you know what happens when the motor is fixed and I take her out. Alan