Bryant
Guru
- Joined
- Jul 10, 2016
- Messages
- 629
- Location
- USA
- Vessel Name
- Sakura Perdido
- Vessel Make
- Grand Banks 36 Classic
Black water pump out
Most likely, the pipe that extends into the tank which allows you to pump out has probably corroded and has broken off up near the top of the fitting where it feeds into the tank. This is a common problem. You need a new pump out pipe installed. I had the same problem.
For years, I've read the black water tank threads with a "lucky that's not me" mentality. Well, it looks like my turn has finally come.
Following Peggie's advice, I'm getting ready to ditch my black water vent filter and enlarge the hose including a nice mushroom through-hull fitting so my tank can breathe and I can ensure the vent is clear. In preparation, I went to the pump-out dock to empty my black water tank.
My black water tank is full (don't ask me how I know...it's not pretty). Nothing would pump out. What I tried:
Yes, the pump-out is working (at least it is vigorously sucking up seawater).
No, the vent is not clogged (well, it may have been but I disconnected it where it attaches at the top of the tank so there was no blockage before pumping).
Thinking the pump out line was plugged by solids at the entrance to the tank, I ran a plumbing snake down the deck fitting and "stirred things up."
Took it back to the pump out and still got nothing.
The kicker, I took the boat out (where it is legal) and the diaphragm pump allowed me to empty my tank overboard with no issues.
What in the world is going on here?
Most likely, the pipe that extends into the tank which allows you to pump out has probably corroded and has broken off up near the top of the fitting where it feeds into the tank. This is a common problem. You need a new pump out pipe installed. I had the same problem.