Chuck:
You can try a homemade solution of 50%-50% power steering fluid and
acetone......apply with an eye dropper or dab carefully with a
Q-tip......careful not to get the solution on the deck as the acetone
will be destructive.
I have successfully used this solution in the home, on my car and the
boat to free up seized parts.
Rob Abbott
AZURA
C&C 32 - 84
Halifax, N.S.
On 2016-06-06 11:57 AM, Chuck Gilchrest via CnC-List wrote:
Suggestions needed:
I purchased the new to me C&C Landfall 35 that had been “sitting” for
a number of years. I’ve painstakingly gone through systems to get
everything functional and replaced items that needed updates.
So, after several outings on the boat, it was determined that it may
be a good idea to pump out the holding tank to reduce a growing odor
in the boat.
Well the one thing that wasn’t checked in my systems review was the
waste fitting at the deck which our harbormaster and I have determined
has corroded itself closed over the years of inactivity. I’ve tried
several deck keys and tools (also using a vise grip to serve as an
extension to the tool), an application of liquid wrench, and finally a
punch with a plastic tipped mallet to try and free the deck fitting.
No luck. I just can get enough purchase on the tips of the tool into
the holes in the deck fitting lid as they’re only several mm deep.
Should I drill the holes deeper?
My next approach is going to involve heat, but here’s where the
dilemma begins- Is adding heat to the deck fitting something that may
ignite the build-up of methane inside the tank? Can I possibly blow
myself and the boat up using a butane torch to heat the fitting before
beating it into submission? I’ve generally had good luck with
applying heat to free corrosion caused by dissimilar metals, but the
fill cap and flange both appear to be chromed bronze and I suspect the
bonding has occurred due to the corrosive nature of what’s in the
tank. Has anyone come up with a “super tool” that can unscrew the
most stubborn deck fills?
I also haven’t found below deck access to the deck fitting flange, so
I have no idea if it is through bolted to the deck with nuts below, or
if it is simply screwed in place?
While I don’t think the tank is anywhere near full, I’d prefer not to
spend the entire summer on a boat that smells like a dog kennel so
whatever help is out there, I’m open to suggestions.
Chuck Gilchrest
Half Magic
1983 LF 35
Padanaram, MA
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_______________________________________________
This list is supported by the generous donations of our members. If you like
what we do, please help us pay for our costs by donating. All Contributions are
greatly appreciated!
