Dry bilges?

D

Dreamer

New member
I am considering drilling the hulls at their lowest point and installing some bronze drains like these:
257080_MHI_GARB0_500_P_WPM.jpg

I'm searching for a way to keep the bilges drier in the winter. Of course, I'll use the Dr. Bob approved method of epoxying the holes and mounting flange. Does anyone see a problem with this? It worked well on the old ski boats.

 
I don't see a problem with it using the Dr. Bob approved core sealing method.

My personal preference is to avoid drilling through the hull whenever possible though. I just bought a new wet dry vac and the first job will likely be in draining the few inches of anti-freeze in the hull and fish boxes (easier than holding a bucket with the pumps on).

There is the age old risk of forgetting to put the plugs in before you splash. Be careful about putting the plug in too tight (i.e. stress on core sealing).
 
The smaller cat (Caracal 18) which I own, has these plugs. No problems, even though the boat is left in the water all of the time. I would check them occasionally for electrolysis and even take them out and make sure that the threaded part is intact.

I believe it is a good idea to put these in place. I have not done this on my Tom Cat, since it on a lift, and would be difficult to get to the drain plugs.
 
Roger,

The RF 245 has one of these. I just check it 1/yr as Dr. Bob suggests.
Never had to open it as we seem to have a dry bilge :D

Merv
 
Dreamer":nbjw8r80 said:
I am considering drilling the hulls at their lowest point and installing some bronze drains like these:
257080_MHI_GARB0_500_P_WPM.jpg

I'm searching for a way to keep the bilges drier in the winter. Of course, I'll use the Dr. Bob approved method of epoxying the holes and mounting flange. Does anyone see a problem with this? It worked well on the old ski boats.
Click to expand...
Our 1987 C-Dory 22FT. A has two bronze drain plugs that was installed at the factory when the boat was built, one inside the house right in front of the portapotty and one in the back of the house right under the back door. We have had the boat in salt water every year since she was new and both plugs and flanges today are as good as new. I'M sure they will serve you well :D
 
OK, Roger...I'm gonna ask the dumb-ass question of the day. Does the stern [on each hull] not have one installed on Tom Cats like they do on 25s?
 
Mark, Nope, there are presently no holes in the hull below the water line. Thanks for the advice guys. This is a great site!

Warren, Shouldn't be a problem as they'll be on the vertical "transom" of each hull. Not on the bottom.

Roger
 
Dreamer":1w39oiut said:
Mark, Nope, there are presently no holes in the hull below the water line. Thanks for the advice guys. This is a great site!

Warren, Shouldn't be a problem as they'll be on the vertical "transom" of each hull. Not on the bottom.


Roger
Click to expand...

:| Huh....live and learn.
 
Dreamer":a6vo313u said:
I am considering drilling the hulls at their lowest point and installing some bronze drains like these:
257080_MHI_GARB0_500_P_WPM.jpg

I'm searching for a way to keep the bilges drier in the winter. Of course, I'll use the Dr. Bob approved method of epoxying the holes and mounting flange. Does anyone see a problem with this? It worked well on the old ski boats.
Click to expand...

I have one on the Parker and lubed it with some Triple Guard type synthetic grease (blue) It is usually installed but considering removing it during storage and plan on installing a high water alarm in case the bilge pump fails and adding a second pump. Should also be useful if I forget the plug depending on the sensor location. A future project is a total overall with 2 bilge pumps with electronic switches and separate hoses, high water alarm, and pump switches and activity lights at the helm

Walmart has a spare (plastic) garboard plug on a key ring for $3 and I keep it the boat tool bag.
 
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