Thru-hulls and Seacocks

[Don]

I've read some interesting comments in the archives on this subject but I have a few more questions.1. What is the proper bedding compound to use for the thru-hull fittings?2. Whats the reason for sea-cocks verse's ball valves. I realize "I believe" that on the seacocks they have a locking and unlocking mechanisium, is there a reason or purpose for that?3. What the best way to go 'bronze' or 'plastic' thru-hulls? And what about using plastic female ball valves for shut-offs? I'm planning to pull my 27h out of the water soon to replace or fix the transducer to my knotmeter 'as previously mention in an earlier topic'. Well at the same time I plan to replace all my thru-hull fittings and my sea-cocks. I will also be replacing my 'Y' fitting for my toilet 'as it is broken'. At 65.00 hr to have a mechanic help me, I was hoping to do most the work myself. What has me worried is its not like household plumbing, because if you have a leak just turn of the water. If I've done something wrong during the installation of the thru-hulls...my boat may sink. Like I had mentioned before...I'm new to owning a boat, and would appreciate some advice.

 

[Terry]

HI DON, MOST THROUGH HULL FITTINGS...

are made of plastic, and unless they've been damaged may not need to be replaced. Most marinas doing service on boats use a standard bronz sea cock and they can give you tips on proper bedding (probably 3M 5200) and installation. If you can remove the seacock from the through hull fitting, and it still looks okay I would not replace it. Same goes for the sea cock. If it still functions okay, is not stiff and no leakage, the hoses and clamps are still in good condition, I would not replace it.Take it a step at a time. If the seacocks work okay, the double clamps and hoses look good, then I would leave it and the fitting alone. As others have said many times, if it's not broken, don't fix it. One of the best things you can do to a seacock is open and close it at regular intervals to keep the working parts clean.I would check and thoroughly clean your knot meter transducer impeller once on the hard. That is usually the culprit; they gunk up with critters and stop spinning. Use a small utility knife to scrape off all debris from and around the impeller carefully. Then check it.Good luck.Terry

 

[Don]

Appreciate the info. Terry

I may leave the thru-hull fittings alone. But the seacocks will have to be replaced because they are not working.....there all stuck open. I'm a little concerned about how I will get the seacocks loose with-out breaking the seal on the thru-hull.....but once out of the water I will be able to see more and have a better idea as to what I will need to do. Thanks again for you response.