Macerator Pump

[Rusty]

I own a 32 ft. Luhrs Open.

During this week end fishing trip, the macerator pump would not work; therefore, I could not discharge the holding tank.

Questiion 1): Must the holding tank be pumped out and the holding tank rinsed clean prior to removal of the hoses for the macerator pump relacement? The reason for this question, is that my marina does not have a "pumping station" for this service. Obviously I do not want to remove the hoses with contents spilling out in that confined space. That would be hell to pay!!

Question 2): Does anyone know of a method to accomplish this task other than a marina pumping station? I am contacting my local plumbers.

Stuck in the muck!!

Rusty

[HisDoghouse]

In Virginia, there's a program where you can contact these state-funded folks to come and give you a "complimentary" demonstration pump out at your slip. Last weekend these young ladies were working my marina and I was able to get my tank pumped at no charge. I did tip them a few bucks for their effort. These young ladies are college students who are majoring in related fields (i.e. environmental and/or chemistry).

This type of service might be available for free where you are. Good luck,

Joe

p.s. BTW, on my last boat I had to service my Vac-U-Flush vacuum generator. It's a $h1TTy job (no pun intended), but after you get over the smell, it's not bad. At least I couldn't smell it any more <grin>.

[dnkstarr]

Rusty,
My prior Luhrs was a 32 open, The pump on mine was on the port side just foward of the fresh water tank, sitting in between two supports. If yours is the same, then change out should be no problem. I did change mine out (of course with a full tank), I took the screws out of the base and the hose restraint clips. Keep the pump higher then the tank, loosen the hoses and remove them one at a time starting with the discharge side (smaller hose). Remember keep the hoses higher than the tank (s--- dont run up hill). Place the hoses on the new pump as soon as you take them off. Once on the new pump tighen the hose clamps and you should be good to go, pun intended. Good Luck.

David

[dnkstarr]

Sorry, One last thing. Make sure your discharge valve is CLOSED.

[Rusty]

Thanks for the advise. My pump is located on the port side at the same position; therfore, should be able to change out as you instructed.

I was fearfull of any gravity situation.

Rusty