Holding Tank - Lesson 1

First, I had to get the old tank out. The pump out from two weeks ago ruptured the tank and the contents were everywhere (well, bilge at least).

Out came the battery, battery box and the top half of the wooden steps. Messy.

Unscrew the stainless steel screws holding the tank in place. Getting very messy.

Drain the tank as best I could. I lost the will to live.

Disconnect the inlet, outlet and vent pipes. The vent pipe was completely bunged up with calcium (?).

Unscrew the port side drain pipe (pictured left, just above the old tank), and lift up slightly, so as to allow the tank to slide forward, up and out.

Lots of disinfectant later, one clean area.

Disconnect the pump out pipe from the deck-fitting.

That's as far as I got on Saturday. Home to hot bath.

New holding tank ordered

I bought Jane Morris realising I would at some point need to replace the holding tank. I think the tank is the original one. It's made of aluminium. Every book and magazine article I've read says 'aluminium shouldn't be used'. So why did Sealine fit one back in 1990?

I've chosen a plastic tank from Tek-Tanks. Very nice people too. I've checked and double-checked the size I need and I've ordered a new vent, hoses and a tank level gauge. The existing vent piping is too small so I need to fit a new vent and wider diameter hoses.

It look like I'll have to fit the new tank myself. I've asked a few people to help me but, funnily enough, they're all too busy. I'm off to buy overalls and Marigolds. Wish me luck.