Replacing vented loop

Oct 20, 2018
2
Hunter Legend 37.5 Alameda
Hi all,
I have recently purchased a 1993 Hunter 375. It appears that the vented loop for the Jabsco toilet has failed causing sea water to spray all over places it shouldn't be! The issue is how to access the vented loop device itself. It's screwed to a bulkhead between the shower and the nav station. I can see it, but can't reach it, from below the sink. I can barely touch it from behind the nav station by opening up the circuit breaker panel. Does anyone have an idea for accessing this part without cutting holes?

Thanks!
Mark
 
Dec 2, 1997
8,959
- - LIttle Rock
It's just about impossible for a curved piece of pipe with hole in the top to fail. It has two problems.: There's a supposed to be an air valve in the hole at the top. Air valves are replaceable parts, almost always sold separately. Most of the people who work in boat stores these days wouldn't know what an air valve is, and neither did the PO who installed the loop...and that's why it squirts.
It may also be in the wrong location.Vented loops need to be at least 6-8" above waterline--not just when the boat is at rest, but at ANY angle of heel...which on most sailboats puts it 2-3 FEET above the bowl. No way could it be that high if it's under the vanity or nav station.

Someone with more knowledge of your boat's layout than I have can help you gain access to it to remove it, but it needs to be a lot closer to the toilet. Once you get it out, I'll be glad help you get it right this time.
--Peggie
 
Jan 19, 2010
12,617
Hobie 16 & Rhodes 22 Skeeter Charleston
... Does anyone have an idea for accessing this part without cutting holes?

Thanks!
Mark
Find a teen with skinny arms and offer them $20 to reach it for you.
 
Oct 20, 2018
2
Hunter Legend 37.5 Alameda
The fitting is well above the waterline. Above and behind the nav station.
I can barely feel the top of the fitting from behind the nav station and I don't *think* there's anything like a valve attached to the top. I suppose that it's possible the the valve is completely gone. I've got a new fitting on order, but I don't know if the parts are compatible. We'll see.
As for a teen with skinny arms, it would have to be a teen monkey! LOL!
 
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JamesG161

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Feb 14, 2014
7,810
Hunter 430 Waveland, MS
I suppose that it's possible the the valve is completely gone.
The "Valve" is just a tiny check valve type and no springs.
It is intended to stop a siphon from sea water to toilet, by opening slightly to let a little air in the loop.
A suggestion...
1) You can disconnect the water line at the hand pump and use a small air compressor to blow air to the sea.
2) Connect back the line and pump into the bowl.
3) Repeat step 1 and 2 a few times.

That may free up the check valve. ;)

The valve may be stuck from dead ocean life.
_____
Another possibility, if there is no leaking when pumping water to the bowl.
Buy the newest twist lock pump from Jabsco and set the switch to dry bowl.:)
Jim...
 
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Dec 2, 1997
8,959
- - LIttle Rock
The "Valve" is just a tiny check valve type and no springs.
This illustration (courtesy of BOATUS) should help. (click on it to see it full size).
And btw, the loop in the toilet INTAKE needs to be installed between the pump and the bowl, which requires replacing the short piece of hose the mfr uses to connect 'em with hoses long enough to put the loop at the height it needs to be.
Vented loop air valve.jpg
--Peggie
 

fero

.
Jan 15, 2010
122
Hunter Legend 40.5 Victoria
Mark,
You may want to look on thread “40.5 Questions “ , most comments between #30 and #52 treat just about same issue on slightly longer model of similar vintage.
Frank