Old Lectrasan Worth Rebuilding?

[Jim Logan]

Peggy: I've got a "new" old boat that has a Letrasan Type I MSD installed. It appears to not be functioning, and is very difficult to get to check or service. It is probably 10-12 years old. Is it worth doing a total rebuild assuming it is structurally ok, or would installing a new one probably be best in the long run? It appears to let water flow through it, but there is no current flow nor sound from it when clear water is flushed down the head. Also, does the lectrasan work in brackish water, or do you have to add salt to make it work correctly?

 

[Peggie Hall/HeadMistress]

It's certainly worth saving...

If it's not running, it's obviously not getting any power. It may be as simple as a blow fuse...the previous owner may have disconnected it from the battery (keeping it only for show)...the control may have failed. Call Raritan at 800-352-5630...check out the troubleshooting guide on their website (www.raritaneng.com). Yes, it needs salt. It creates chlorine by charging the ions in salt water with electrical current...so if there isn't enough salt, it can't make chlorine. However, a lack of salt would not prevent it from it running, only from making the chlorine that kills bacteria. So if you're in brackish water you'll need a salt feed tank.And btw, it MUST be run with every flush. While you're in the website, I recommend you read all about the Lectra/San so that you understand how it works--how to operate and maintain it.