through hulls

[james]

I have a 1981 c30 that has the old bonded in through hulls. I 'm going to change them to either bronze or teflon I think is the other material. What one is the better choice. thanks.

 

[Tom]

Are they leaking

Why change. I realize they might be better, but often well enough is good enough. Seems like a ton of work for little up side. I have a ton of things I would do before this.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Planet Catalina]

To a certain point, Tom

I agree that replacing perfectly functioning thru hulls for no other reason that to be updated isn't really a top priority for me BUT...waiting till they're leaking probably isn't the safest choice. If they're stiff or corroded or there's even the *slightest* concern about their integrity, CHANGE 'EM OUT! Anything under the waterline should not be skimped on and the utmost care should be taken in regards to them. There's quite a bit of water pushing up on those holes and if one unexpectedly fails, say bye-bye to the boat (unless you're lucky enough to be aboard when it happens).With regards to what material to get, I'm no expert on this but I've heard lots of talk about a former "wonder material" called Marelon. Lots of problems with it years down the road so that would make me suspicious of "new" materials for the job. I'd stick with bronze, personally cuz it's been time-tested. Good luck!LaDonna

 

[Todd Osborne]

Through Hulls or Seacocks?

On my 1981 Cat 30, the through hulls are fine, but lets be clear here, my seacocks were corroded & needed replacing. When I pulled the boat out for bottom painting I replaced them. Seacocks are simply the valves that attach to your through hulls (actually go through the hull). Once dry docked, remove the old seacocks (replace them) & check the through hulls for corrosion, if they look OK, I'd leave em. Be careful not to break the bond on the through hulls when removing the seacocks or you'll end up having to reseal/replace them anyhow.Bronze or teflon? Bronze unless you have a bad corrosion problem in your area/marina.