Pump out problem

[Ian Cameron]

A volunteer group offers a pump-out service in the Saanich Inlet (just north of Victoria B.C.) I asked them to pump out the tank on my recently-acquired 1984 Hunter 31, and they found their hose (and their adapters) wouldn't fit the Hunter deck opening, which is quite a bit smaller than their hose. They say they've never had the problem before. Any suggestions?

 

[Peggie Hall/Head Mistress]

Solution to the problem:

I think the problem is, most U.S. boats built in the last 20 years have a threaded opening that's 1.25"...while most Canadian built boats have a 1.5" threaded opening. You can either buy a hard rubber "noz-all" universal pumpout connection, or a threaded stainless one to keep aboard. Measure the diameter of the fitting opening, also the number of threads per inch (tpi)to know what size threaded fitting to buy. If you can't find 'em in any of the marine catalogs, call SeaLand...they have 'em. 800-321-9886.

 

[Claude L.-Auger]

Make a PVC adapter or Buy a reducer

Peggy's solution is a good one, but having had the same problem when I took my first Hunter into Canada in 91, I found a real cheap way around it. If I recall correctly, the boat fitting has regular NPT threads ! Go to Home Depot and get a 1.5 inch to 1.25 inch PVC reducer. You'll need to get the female end in the 1.5 inch and the male end in the 1.25 inch. When you get the pump out done, simply screw the 1.25 inch adapter in the boat waste fitting, and let the marina operator screw his SS fitting in the 1.5 inch that you now present him. When pump out is completed, rinse and store adapter until next time.It worked for me without a problem for years for less than $5 (Canadian). Good Luck