[C320-list] FW: Re: HT Vent Obstruction

[Karl Mielenhausen _/)]

Jim and Joe,



Not sure the suction route will be too effective at removing a blockage. I used the water pressure route...

Start with an empty holding tank and open the waste deck fitting (to relieve pressure from the water stream).

Remove the vent fitting (I've got the plastic one that screws off). Remove carefully as the threaded portion coming thru the hull may want to pull back into the inside of the boat. A few wraps of wire or a hose clamp could be used to secure it in place. I think a 3/4" NPT straight coupling works to hold it also.

Then I'd press a garden hose up against the line for a quick blast of water. If you detect an obstruction, use a piece of stiff, coated wire (I used 14 gauge) to poke your way through it. The wire must be long enough to reach the tank.

Follow with another blast of water.

Repeat as necessary.

When reassembling, you may want to caulk around the hull where the fitting comes through so it doesn't tend to pull into the boat. Don't caulk the treads, however.

I've also done this at the same time as pumping out, in addition to several fresh water flushes of the tank, as previously suggested.



I too read about the holding tank cleaning technique using water softening powder and detergent to soften any caked on deposits. I was unable to locate the Calgon powder (appreciate any leads) so I substituted fabric softener instead. Effectiveness yet unknown.



Good luck....



Karl Mielenhausen

2000 C320 Hull#690 "Silver Lining"

New Bern, NC

http://members.cox.net/mielen/





Could you clear the holding tank by putting the pump out suction tube <br>over the vent (making sure it was screwed down tight fires!) with an <br>empty tank. That should suck air through. Thought I'd ask before I <br>tried it. Jim Brown    

_______________________________________________