[C320-list] Bilge Spaces

[Jane & Ken]

Gary and Al,  the first several hundred 320's built did not really have a "bilge" and there is space between the twolayers of fiberglass which allows water to collect and eventually that water finds its way into the hollow structual members where it cannot escape.  The factory answer to this design flaw is to drill holes, vac the water out and plug the holes (then hope no more water gets in??).  There are many pics on the web--or used to be--  I just raise the bow with a lifting strap, place all the weight (friends) I can in the aft cockpit, give them a beer and vac any water I have collected.  I enlarged the inspection hole to 10 inches for easier access.  I bought the boat new and have enjoyed sailing her and adding things as the years went by.   Regards,  Ken & Jane Cathey  O'BUOY  #219

alahlm at comcast.net wrote:  Gary
I had the same problem with water collecting in the same spot I added a 6" inspection plate under the ladder to access the area and keep it dry -- there should be some pics on the web site

al ahlman
#476

-------------- Original message -------------- 
From: "Gary Magnuson" 

> On my 1995 320, (# 205) I was cleaning the bilge spaces and found that the bilge 
> space under the sink, directly under the companion ladder, does not drain into 
> the bilge. Isn't there supposed to be a connection between these two? There 
> appears to be a limber hole, but it seems to be piped right past this space. I 
> can only see into the space through the 4 inch hole under the port floor 
> section. I used my wet vac to draw about 4 gallons out through the inspection 
> hole. Any suggestions how to get this section to drain. I also notice that the 
> compartment where the bilge pump is located, isn't the lowest point in the 
> floor. Plan A was to wash and rinse each section and have it drain aft to the 
> bilge pump. The water seems to drain forward toward the base of the mast. 
> Thanks, 
> Gary Magnuson #205