Issue with Wilcox-Crittenden Head-Mate

tomlindsay · **Joined:** 11 Jun 2014 13:56 **Posts:** 48

Anyone know where I can get a replacement piston for my manual W-C Head-Mate, part #015131? I rebuilt the head about 3 years ago using a W-C 1520 repair kit. Guess I was lucky to find a rebuild kit as they are now "discontinued". The head is in really good shape except that it has "lost" pumping power due to the green ring around the piston has developed crazing. After all these years, would really hate to have to replace the unit because of a failed "O" ring.
Several questions:
1) Has anyone ever run into this problem and/or know where I can locate a rebuild kit or individual parts?
2) Can just the "O" ring be replaced? If so, is there a specific "O" ring that I should use?
3) If it comes to replacing the head, is there a close to "direct replacement" i.e. same footprint, hose configuration, etc. that is available?

Thanks for any input .....

Tom Lindsay
Hooligan
Hull #370

cseltzjr · **Joined:** 16 May 2009 08:06 **Posts:** 254

I finally gave up on mine a few years ago. What I did when I was trying to keep the head mate going was buy the entire pump assembly from thetford (they bought WC a long time ago). But the quality of the parts they were providing was pretty poor. I finally took everything out and replaced it with a Raritan (I think). Never looked back.

cseltzjr · **Joined:** 16 May 2009 08:06 **Posts:** 254

I just looked it up and see that I installed a Raritan PHII head. It wasn’t a “drop in” replacement but it fit just fine. I took that opportunity to replace all the hoses and plumbing arrangement to and from the holding tank.

steves · **Joined:** 01 Nov 2006 10:53 **Posts:** 35

Tom, I sent you and email concerning the piston head.

tomlindsay · **Joined:** 11 Jun 2014 13:56 **Posts:** 48

Thanks for the responses.
I didn't give up and kept looking ..... there had to be some "spare" parts for the discontinued Head-Mate lying around somewhere!
As luck would have it and after hours of searching, I did find a W-C Head-Mate on Ebay that had recently been replaced and looked in good shape. And the best thing is that the owner not only had the used unit, but has a new in the package complete pump assembly and new in the package spare parts kit. I am having the seller remove all components from the bowl (mine is in good shape) and send everything else. Should get the parts later this week.
My W-C is original equipment and has been working great with periodic maintenance for last 21 years that I have owned the boat. Looks like Hooligan is set for at least another 6-8 years before replacement will be required!!! Thanks again -

Tom Lindsay
Hooligan (hull #370)

puffcard · **Posted:** 17 Jun 2021 21:23

Be careful of old new stock rubber parts. I bought a new in box Jabsco SW pump for the engine they had it on a clearance table. Got it at Atlantic Yacht Basin, thought I was good to go. So while heading south in the AICW, I replace my SW pump with my shiny pump. Didn't last a minute, the impeller was just total dust. Good luck. I tried Jabsco heads, the pumps didn't last, went thru 4 in 4 years, replacing with new pumps. Replaced that, with Raritan PHII on it's 4th year.

steves · **Joined:** 01 Nov 2006 10:53 **Posts:** 35

I have the Wilcox Crittenden 1520 Repair Kit - Headmate that is only missing the pump shaft O ring which I will gladly mail to anyone who needs it. I would rather it goes to someone that deep six it.

Tartan37.com

Issue with Wilcox-Crittenden Head-Mate

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