[C320-list] Clearing thru-hull obstruction -RESOLVED

[Warren Updike]

Problem solved, here is how. After deciding I would rig a garden holes to
the thru-hull to back-wash the thing I went to my marina store. The store is
managed by this old salt whose advice I've come to trust and rely upon. I
told him of my problem and approach and his response was, "Why go to all
that trouble?"  He suggested that I just pull the hose somewhere above the
water line and blow into it. So, I figured it was worth a try. Now, on newer
hulls the anti-siphon valve is in the port cockpit locker. On early hulls
with Perkins engines it is in the engine compartment above the alternator. I
pulled the hose from the valve and blew. Tools need: screw driver, lungs,
lips, Time involved: 5 minutes. Problem: solved.
End of story.
Thanks to all for interesting suggestions.

Warren & Pattie Updike
1994 C320 #62 "Warr De Mar"

-----Original Message-----
From: Warren Updike [mailto:wupdike at hotmail.com] 
Sent: Saturday, June 29, 2013 3:15 PM
To: 'C320-List at Catalina320.com'
Subject: RE: [C320-list] Clearing thru-hull obstruction

I'm aware of the back-flow issue. I thought I might just use vice-grips to
collapse the hose to prevent back-flow and not have to undo any connections.
Then, using the winterizing "T" back-flush with a hose. 

The number of really good suggestions offered, even later on, is very
appreciated. I've not yet decided how I'll approach the matter; but starting
with the simplest is probably what I'll try first.  Thank to all.

Warren & Pattie Updike
1994 C320 #62 "Warr De Mar"

-----Original Message-----
From: Jon Vez [mailto:Jonvez at comcast.net]
Sent: Friday, June 28, 2013 6:26 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Clearing thru-hull obstruction

Warren,
If you do this, you may run the risk of the water back flushing into the
engine-especially if you have a clog at the seacock. Your best bet is to
remove the hose at the water pump and use a shop vac to blow out. Another
way to do this is connect a short extension hose to the short section of
hose at the water strainer so you can keep it above the water line. Another
potential reason for your problem is the O-ring on the seacock itself. They
can get stiff and cause this type of problem. Unfortunately this was my
problem at my macerator seacock on my 320. You can plug from the outside and
service the seacock while in the water if this turns out to be your problem.
Hope this helps...

Sent from my iPad

On Jun 28, 2013, at 5:21 PM, Warren Updike <wupdike at hotmail.com> wrote:

> Thanks to all who replied. 
> John, I too have a "T" for winterizing. To attach a garden hose I 
> would need a hose with two female ends or a modification to allow 
> connection. I looked for a Male/Male garden hose adapter but couldn't 
> find one. I'll have to make it.
> As for going under, there has to be an easier way.
> 
> Warren & Pattie Updike
> 1994 C320 #62 "Warr De Mar"
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: John Meyers [mailto:jcmeyers7 at gmail.com]
> Sent: Friday, June 28, 2013 2:21 PM
> To: C320-List at catalina320.com
> Subject: Re: [C320-list] Clearing thru-hull obstruction
> 
> Warren,
> 
> How do you go about winterizing? I have a new T in my cooling line for 
> sucking in coolant. I could push water back through.
> 
> Or.... how well can you swim and hold your breath?
> 
> John Meyers
> 
> 
> On Fri, Jun 28, 2013 at 2:04 PM, Warren Updike <wupdike at hotmail.com>
wrote:
> 
>> Upon last leaving the boat I was unable to close the cooling water 
>> thru-hull fully.  Got it about two thirds.  It seems that something 
>> like a twig is lodged there.
>> 
>> Does anyone have any experience clearing such a thing?  I was 
>> thinking of back-flushing with a hose; but, have to figure a way to 
>> do that without forcing water through the system and filling the muffler.
>> 
>> Any ideas appreciated.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Warren & Pattie Updike
>> 
>> 1994 C320 #62 "Warr De Mar"
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
> 
>