Barnacles in the bilge

[waternwaves]

Hate to bring this up.......

But there is a cost associated with bleaching the bilge tank, especially on the old boats...95-98-99 etc......

the bottom through hull valve with the rubber gasket is not compatible with chlorine.... and it only takes one or two times to damage the gasket and start leaking. at which point the tank will not stay empty.....and will result in a leaking seal.

replace the seal with a material compatible with dilute chlorine solutions. I have not checked the transom valve, but since those are used in pools.... I think it is alright.

I now have an EPDM gasket cut out for it.... just haven't crawled underneath to replace yet,,,, The old one looks like a poor quality neoprene, does not look as tough as nitrile..... but I will probably acid test to determine what the old one was.

just a little early warning from someone that is always finding new and unique ways to wear out his boats......

[BK]

To keep the transom in-out/take valve tube clean of growth, I put a rubber cap from Home Depot on it. I believe it is a 3" cap and it is in the plumbing section. It has not come off in high speed as it is a tight fit.
I have been puting a small amount(2 tablespoons) of swimming pool clorine in my ballast for years now.