I just replaced the OEM Wilcox Crittenden head and all the plumbing except the holding tank. I wanted to go with a composting head, but after trying to fit cardboard templates of three different brands, came to the conclusion that our head space just won't accommodate a composter. Then at the Seattle boat show I looked at the Vacuflush system, but there is no possible way to fit the vacuum tank and pump in the space under the sink. I finally settled on a manual Levac vacuum head, and am really happy with the choice.
It was still challenging to fit the separate diaphragm pump inside the sink cabinet and make the hose bends. I simplified the plumbing, eliminating two diverter valves and the head to direct overboard option in the process. Everything goes to the holding tank, and then can be pumped out to the deck fitting or to the thru hull via a macerator pump.
This job was way overdue, as both diverter valves were stuck in position, and the 1.5" hoses were so calcified that their ID was reduced by half. You can imagine, the new system is a huge improvement. The diaphragm pump is a 16.5 GPM Whale, and really moves the water thru the system. Levac claims it uses about 5 pints per flush, but I think we'll have to be careful we don't fill the holding tank too fast with over-enthusiastic flushing. The head is pretty sleek since the pump is separate, making for a much more comfortable throne and a simple clean appearance.
There are some downsides the this installation:
- It will probably take a good hour to get the pump out of the cabinet for major maintenance. There IS a inspection port that screws off by hand for clearing clogs, but for major rebuilds the pump will have to be pulled out.
- The pump handle has to be removed to use the head, and replaced to flush. Not a huge deal given the much better performance, reliability and clean look, but it will be an irritation..
Attachment:
Maui 2012 Jays iPhone 2.JPG [ 1.55 MB | Viewed 0 times ] Attachment:
Maui 2012 Jays iPhone 3.JPG [ 1.47 MB | Viewed 0 times ] Attachment:
Maui 2012 Jays iPhone 1.JPG [ 1.22 MB | Viewed 0 times ] Later,
Jay