Plumbing

[sogood]

I'm in the process of refurbing a 1990 Wellcraft 250 Sportsman and was looking at replacing some of the hoses on the toilet/head set up. So, I began the process of identifying and tracing the existing hoses. I have identified much of what is there and the set up is such that there is a waste holding tank as well as a direct flow to the outside, which seems to be controlled via a "Y" valve. The water supply itself comes from outside also and both inlet and outlet are controlled by sea cocks.

​As I'm at sea all the time, I'm wondering can I simplify matters and eliminate the holding tank altogether. There is a "Waste" cap on the gunwale alongside the "Gas" cap, which I'm assuming is for draining/syphoning the waste out. Is this right?

Any thoughts, suggestions, best approach etc. much appreciated.

 

[muskyfins]

The waste cap is in fact for pumping out the waste tank.

As far as removing it, I don't believe it is legal to do so, because eventually your boat will pull into a harbor and I believe (i could be wrong) that the system must be in tact within 3 miles of shore. It is worth a little research as to the legality. In Chicago area harbors, they do inspect and require your waste sea **** to not only be closed but also locked out/handle removed.

 

[sogood]

Thanks for the response. I'm based in Kerry in the south west corner of Ireland and while regulations do exist, I'd be ok to fully remove the tank. (I've looked into the regulations etc.) I suppose I could just leave the tank be and simply leave the "Y" valve set to pump the waste directly to the sea ****, and always have the tank as a back up. Might be useful if I ever take to the inland waterways.

​Thanks again.