Also, a good spanner wrench (and a hammer) may do the trick...

Bob Boyer
s/v Rainy Days
C&C Landfall 38 (Hull # 230)
Annapolis, MD (presently in Baltimore)
blog: dainyrays.blogspot.com
email: dainyr...@icloud.com

> On Jun 6, 2016, at 11:06 AM, Andrew Burton via CnC-List 
> <cnc-list@cnc-list.com> wrote:
> 
> Chuck, I've had good luck using a couple of punches the right size to fit the 
> holes and then using a large screwdriver between them to lever the plate 
> open. 
> I have found oxygenating tablets work very well to eliminate the smell from 
> the tank. I would think any methane would be eliminated through the vent.
> Can you follow the hose to find the deck plate? It sounds like it's time to 
> replace it anyway.
> 
> Andy
> C&C 40
> Peregrine
> 
>> On Mon, Jun 6, 2016 at 10:57 AM, Chuck Gilchrest via CnC-List 
>> <cnc-list@cnc-list.com> 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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> 
> 
> 
> -- 
> Andrew Burton
> 61 W Narragansett Ave
> Newport, RI
> USA 02840
> http://sites.google.com/site/andrewburtonyachtservices/
> phone  +401 965 5260
> _______________________________________________
> 
> This list is supported by the generous donations of our members. If you like 
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