tophatyachts.com

Hi, has anyone undertaken this task? If so, how did you get access to the valves?
I need to replace the original screw down gate valves, as they are around 20 years old. However, when I inspected the valves, I noticed that the fibreglass floor of the heads may need to be cut to afford access. This would necessitate removal of the toilet and the subsequent reinforcement of the floor section, post installation of the new valves.
I was hoping that someone else had found a "work-around".
Thanks,
Kevin
Wayward Lady, Mk111,
Williamstown, Vic

If you unscrew the top parts of the gate valve from the body you should be able to turn the body without cutting the fibreglass.
Having said that however, mine were so tight that I cut them off and fitted new through hull fittings as well.
Cheers,
Tom

Thanks Tom, it certainly is a challenge - i was wondering if I unsrewed the top section, could I not simply replace this with a new top section, leaving the body where it is? This would, hopefully, leave me with new working parts and a solid body!
Cheers,
Kevin
Wayward Lady, Mk111
Williamstown, Vic

Taking the tap section off the gate valve will improve access. I recently replaced 6 gate valves on the Albin Vega with Ball Valves. A couple were so tight I worried I'd damage the thru hull fitting, so I carefully cut into the side with an angle grinder + thin cutting disc. The body of the gate valve then cracked open and came off cleanly.

If the toilets been there a while, probably best to take the opportunity to pull it out and fit a new pump/valve kit while you're at it. All pleasant jobs!

Cheers, RodM

Rod,

If you are replacing the valve may pay to do the whole thing and replace the hull fittings as well, good for another 20 years then

I was tempted. The marine surveyor said they were fine, no leaching etc so as they were fibre glassed on inside like the Tophats, I left 'em. New engine bed, replacement motor, gearbox, new prop shaft, new brass cast prop, new new, replacement replacement... My head and wallet were reeling so I left 'em for another day:)
Cheers, RodM

ouch! That's a lot of 'new' stuff. Glad I did not have to go that far, the SWMBO would have had me in all sorts of trouble!

Fair call Rod.

Ahoy Wayward Lady (i do love that name)
Kevin how is the fresh'n up going ? I had my first real sail form Willie to Sandy last week in perfect conditions it was a lot of fun
Have you dropped the mast yet if you need a hand give me a buzz and I'll see you out there
Cheers Martin