leaky fittings

[dpiano]

We are in the process of replacing all the cheap junk upholstery on our 2013 R29. Removing the seats requires taking off many of the wall and ceiling panels in the cave, and crawling into the area where the plumbing is for the bathroom. I discovered several if the fittings were leaking, letting a fair amount of water onto the floor there. I know hose clamps should be tightened occasionally (I do that yearly in the engine room) but never dawned on me to open that area. Another maintenance item. Also best to wear a long sleeved shirt when down there.....I had fiberglass itch for a couple days after.

 

[baz]

Hmmmm, maybe place one or two water sensor alarm boxes down there.... just saying.... 🙂

 

[TexasEye]

Has anyone gone to PEX, thinking about totally replumbing RT-25 Classic with PEX

 

[dpiano]

I think pex would be a ducky idea; thought of that myself when I was mopping up the leaks. I have used pex in our home and other boats, and it is far superior to hose and hose clamps. I can't think of a single reason to not change, other than the cost. Perhaps that's why Ranger doesn't use them. There is actually less labor involved to install pex fittings than messing with hose clamps. Easier to remove if ever need be. Might just do that someday.

 

[TexasEye]

PEX might also resolve the shore water failure issue. We are lined up to Haul the TUG out for repairs and routine Mait in a couple weeks. We plan to put in PEX. If we do I will post cost and time on project.

 

[BB marine]

The barb fitting plastic water lines are a bit old school and rarely used any more in the marine industry. I was surprised when we took delivery of our 2016 C26 that Cutwater used this system . We had looked at R25 and R27 both had Whale’s Quick Connect water system or equivalent. Utilizing Blue (cold) Red (hot) plastic pipe. I highly recommend this system. So far I have had few issues with the hose clamp/barb fitting plumbing after our first year of owning the boat. I added inspecting and tightening all hose clamps on board to my yearly maintenance. I always find a few loose and occasionally replace a clamp. Some clamps were not sized correctly and fail. If and when issues do arise from leaky fittings I would not hesitate to convert over to the Whale quick connect system. On the C26 it would be an easy conversion. With the removal of the cave interior panels, aft storage compartment accesses, head and galley cabinets, all water lines associated with the water system can be accessible. The whale quick connectors are easy to work with and if installed properly very reliable. Also easy to replace if needed.

 

[dpiano]

I'll have a look at those. I am remembering also that when our boat was about 3 months old, a water line to the galley sink blew off, requiring removal of the fridge to fish out the line and re-attach. I think conversion to Whale is a good plan.