Plastic Thru-Hull

[John J.]

I have a new 310 which comes standard with plastic thru-hull fittings (I think they call them marlon). While closing the valves on Sunday night one of the handles snapped off in my hand. As you know, a rather disconcerting feeling to watch water rush in. Once again duct tape to the rescue. I was able to get the handle back in place and snug it tight with the tape. Probably reduced the leak by 95%. This is a poorly designed valve, if the handle comes off there is no way to insert a wood plug or close the valve. My question is: has anyone had problems with these fittings? Or can I hope there was a production problem with just this one.

 

[Dave Ullrich]

No problems here

I actually have a 1983 Cat 30, but she has the "plastic" seacocks you mention. They are actually poly (I think). I've never had any problems with them and still have the originals in place. I agree that the handles should NEVER just break off. It sounds like a simple manufacturing defect to me.

 

[Dave McCarthy]

Motion is Life!!

Keep those thru-hull valves moving free and easy by periodically 'running' them through the open and close cycles!! With all the marvelous flora and fauna in the waters around our boats, something will surely set up housekeeping inside and cause hard-turning and broken handles! Make Valve-handle moving part of your regular system checks.

 

[John J]

Thanks for the reply, but....This is a 4 month old boat in fresh water. I open and close the valves on a regular basis (every weekend) to insure they don't freeze up. Since this mornings post I called Forespar and talked to them. They said a failure is pretty rare and they would gladly replace free of charge. As others have stated on this board, it is nice to see companies stand behind their products.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Catalina Owners]

Marelon

I don't have personal experience with them, so take this for what it's worth. I have heard that Marelon can deteriorate over time, much more quickly than bronze, etc. In just a few years, they can break. I agree that it shouldn't have done so after only 3 months - that's just plain ridiculous. So here's the question: do you want to depend on that kind of thru-hull again, even if they are sending a free replacement? Will you have peace of mind? I would have a hard time having faith in them after that early of a failure. Just something to think about.LaDonna