[Public-list] Leaky Water Tank

[George Dinwiddie]

Roger,

I don't know the older boats well, but I doubt if Whitby built the tank
with a plywood top.

Our tank has an access port added under the plywood supporting the
v-berth.  These plywood panels lift out.  The access port is in the
forward top of the tank, as the aft top is underneath fixed furniture.
The access to the aft bottom of the tank is difficult, but possible.

I would *absolutely* not put an access port on the side of the tank.
Your trust in sealing surfaces is apparently much more optimistic
than mine.

 - George


On Tue, Aug 17, 2004 at 11:33:35AM -0400, Roger L. Kingsland wrote:
> George,
> 
> I looked at my tank the other day (#148, built 1966) and there doesn't
> appear to be an aluminum cover but rather a piece of plywood permanently
> glassed-in.  Have you seen this type of installation on other boats.  I did
> notice leaks from forward during my brief time on the water and wonder how
> to access the tank for cleaning and potential repairs.  Perhaps 2 to 4 large
> access ports cut into the top at locations where I can access the entire
> tank.  Is it feasible to mount an access port with a clear plastic cover on
> the vertical bulkhead  below the V berth seat (aft end of tank)?  This would
> allow good access to the tank and also act as a visual water level gauge.
> Do you suppose the O ring seal can withstand the water pressure?

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