Hi again,
I'm looking to add a holding tank with all the needed hardware, to replace my outworn Lectrasan. In the process, I will need to drill a hole for the waste deck fill. What do you all do to drill through your deck? What kind of a drill bit or drilling tool (electric drill, rotozip, dremel?) do you use? What suggestions do you have to avoid splintering the area on the non-skid? Do you recommend bedding the stainless steel deck fill with silicon sealant, 5200 or epoxy? How thick is the deck just above the forward cabin starboard locker?
As always, your wisdom is appreciated,
John
John,
The easiest and cleanest way is to use a drill a "hole saw"... As to what to bed the new fitting with, this is always an interesting discussion... I am not a fan of 5200, polyurethane base adhesives (let the stones fly) but many are. I prefer Polysulfide based products like boat Life-calk or 3M Marine Sealant 101. Polyurethane adhesive are hard to remove and less flexible than polysulfide sealants.
Below is a link to replacing a deck fitting on Sea Dragon... You will be able to see how thick the deck is.
http://www.sailingseadragon.com/AnchorLocker.htm
Garner
Dear Garner,
Thank you for the prompt reply. The pictures really help. Would you say that the deck is about 5/8-3/4 of an inch at that location?
Just replaced my electric with a Lavac. Used a hole saw. Went from the bottom up and when the pilot came through, I finished from the top. Same on the tank vent. Got my holding tank (8 gal) from Plastic-Mart. Plumbed it so I can pump overboard, to the tank, or tank to overboard. Used a combination of hose and pvc.
Gordon
Make sure you seal the core with epoxy. I over drill the hole, remove some balsa from the sides, fill with epoxy then drill the smaller hole.
Leo