Replacing Passage 42 Water Tank

[Paul Cossman]

Bladder water tanks: Vetus or Nauta?

I finally need to replace the forward water tank on my 1991 Passage 42. It now has a seepage type leak, and the water seepage has very seriously damaged the wooden bulkhead just aft of the tank (which is just forward of a storage area under the forpeak bunk). It is structural damage, and I need to replace the water tank NOW.

There is no room to get into the area and replace with a Ronco or other rigid tank. I will be cutting away an area of the top of the tank, inspecting for baffles, sharp areas, etc., and then fitting a flexible bladder tank inside the old aluminum alloy water tank.

Based upon some simple internet research it appears that sailors are happier with the Vetus and Nauta brand tanks than the Plastimo tanks. Does anybody have any experience with either the Vetus or the Nauta as far as the taste of the water stored inside those tanks? That will likely be the determining factor as to which of these two I purchase.

Thanks for any input.

Cheers,

Paul Cossman

 

[Rick D]

Re: Bladder water tanks: Vetus or Nauta?

I replaced a (second) bow tank in my V32 with two Nauta tanks. I used nylon strapping to hold them in place because I removed the aluminum tank. I found there to be no taste associated with the water and the tanks were very strong and well-made. I used them for three years before I sold the boat and the next guy for five more. They are the only ones I would consider. I have a 15 gallon Plastimo tank now I use to fill up from shoreside water when in Catalina. It's great for that purpose but I wouldn't consider it for long term. Good luck, Paul.

 

[Paul Cossman]

Re: Bladder water tanks: Vetus or Nauta?

Very useful info! Thanks very much, Rick. I'll let you know how it all works out.