[C320-list] Water system, newbie questions

[Jon Vez]

Warren,

Another way to simplify a fresh water flushing approach is to simply tee the
head sink drain to flush the head with fresh water. This way when the
seacock is closed, you simply fill the sink with water and flush. You can
still use salt water to flush by opening the seacock. When we cruise for
more than a few days, we use salt water for flushing to preserve fresh
water. The added benefit is this keeps the water in your tanks from getting
stale.

I believe Dick Walker also implemented this option--if interested, I will
provide the parts etc...very simple and works well...

Regards,

Jon Vez
Solstice #582

-----Original Message-----
From: c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com
[mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Warren Updike
Sent: Sunday, July 04, 2010 4:03 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Water system, newbie questions

You might want to start by purifying the tanks and hoses. The manual should
have a procedure for doing this. Starbright also makes a product for purging
tanks and hoses.  I also recommend installing an RV type water filter.  Be
sure and open/clean the filter screen on the low pressure side of the water
pump; and, remove and clean any faucet heads AFTER you complete the purging.

There should be 5 seacocks on the boat: galley sink, head sink, head flush
water, holding tank mascerator, and engine cooling.  

Definitely, salt water will encourage odor. I removed that hose and blocked
the hose on that through hull, and use water from the sink to flush the head
either with a cup or by pulling the shower head over to the toity.  I also
use and swear by a product called Odorlos. It is an enzyme product that
promotes the aerobic bacteria in the tank.

Also, find and check the anti-siphon valves onboard.  There are likely
three: engine cooling fresh water, head sink, and heat toity.

I would love to install a separate water tank even if only 5 or 10 gal. for
flushing the head via the pump. The problem is more how to fill it: where to
locate a filler tube. Haven't solve that problem yet. Anyone?? 

Warren & Pattie Updike
Catalina 320, #62, "Warr De Mar"
Middle River, Chesapeake Bay

-----Original Message-----
From: Kevin [mailto:onedrop7 at yahoo.com] 
Sent: Friday, July 02, 2010 3:11 PM
To: C320-List at catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Water system, newbie questions

Warning: 320 newbie questions ahead:

I'm still quite new to my 320 (#211, 1995) and have figured out the basics
of the and rebuilt the head system, but the fresh water system I've really
not used yet.

Can someone give me the basics of what I need to do to use it? Or point me
to a manual or online info? I think I have it working but it it would be
nice to get some confirmation so I don't screw anything up.

Which seacocks do I need to be open for drainage? Just the one under the
sink?
Do I leave the panel switch that reads "water pres/shower pump" in the on
position?
Also, can using sea water make the head smell? I've been keeping it empty
and, as I said, rebuilt it, but there is still a bit of a funky smell. Might
using fresh water reduce this, and if so, how do I switch the system to get
water from the tanks rather than salt water?

Thanks for any help you might be able to provide, and have a great holiday
weekend!

Kevin
S/V Cecilia Ann, #211
Deale, MD
http://kevjot.com/boat/