[C320-list] Mysterious water leak C320 Hull 78

[Dennis Harris]

An additional thing to check is the cutless bearing/shaft stut.  It bolts 
through the hull with four bolts.  As I recall, this area has glass over it 
on most boats, but some may not have been covered.  Also, vibration over 
time might have opened up this area.

Dennis Harris C-320 #694

-----Original Message----- 
From: Dean Vermeire
Sent: Tuesday, October 02, 2012 5:09 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Mysterious water leak C320 Hull 78

Hi Jeff,

Just a thought, but I would dry everything out as best as I could, and
then put newspaper down everywhere I could get to inside. Wait a while
and then look to see where it is wet.

Dean Vermeire
#847

On 10/2/2012 3:42 PM, Jeff Brown wrote:
> Hi C320 Group:
> Our C320 is located in the marina of Dana Point, California.  So I've been 
> battling a mysterious water leak (not fresh water so it's not coming from 
> top or fresh water tanks).  We're taking on about 2 gallons of water per 
> day, so it's significant.  So here's what I've checked:
>
> 1. All through holes are dry and not leaking, closed all of them and leak 
> continued
> 2. Checked under floor boards, no leaks from any of the bolts that hold 
> the keel to the bottom
> 3. Checked depth gauge and knot meter fittings, no leaks
> 4. Replaced packing gland with "dripless" packing and its not coming from 
> here
> 5. I've opened every floorboard, took everything out of cabinets and darn 
> near torn open the whole boat, no detection of water entry.
>
> So, my analysis of the general area of the leak, at least what I am able 
> to see, it's coming from somewhere on the bottom of the boat from the 
> bilge pump back to somewhere under the engine.
>
> There are two areas I am unable to visibly see.  The space under the 
> kitchenette floor back to under the engine, there is a space but it's not 
> accessible.  I've called several boat mechanics, explained the problem and 
> can't find anyone who thinks they can figure it out.  Called Catalina, 
> Kent in California and Kurt in Florida, and they are as stumped as I.
>
> So, if anyone has had a similar experience, please let me know. If you 
> haven't had the same issue but can provide guidance on how we would go 
> about finding the problem (i.e haul it out and look for cracks) or any 
> help, it's greatly appreciated.  As you can imagine, everyday I fear going 
> to the boat and finding it under water.
>
>
> Best regards,
>
> Jeffrey Brown
> (949) 350-5123
>
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