Holding Tank Warning Light-Part 2

[ashapiro]

<div>Thanks to all who replied to my previous post in early Sept. Since receiving a number of learned replies, including one suggesting a return to the cedar bucket, I recently torn into the problem and performed some preliminary steps towards the repair of my "non-operating" holding tank warning light! Step one was to isolate the problem, and I think that after a few minutes with the meter, I've determined that the problem is a "non-working" probe. The probe seems to be installed through a 1-1 1/2 " PVC bung-type plug in the top of the holding tank, at the bottom of the bilge. Does this fitting unscrew? After it is removed, is it simply a task of finding a replacement probe? Does anyone know where to get a replacement probe, or who made and sold the unit? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.Mick MacMullan
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[dhoneycutt]

Mick: Yes the fitting unscrews, at least it did on 38-2 hull #74. The thing I had in there was a mercury switch in a piece of tubing, when the tubing floated up the switch sent a signal to the light. I don,t now where, probably Boat US and West but commercial switch,s of this type are available. Good luck and happy sailing.

 

[ashapiro]

<div>Dick, Thanks for the reply and info. I just completed the fix! Unscrewed the pvc fitting (as you indicated) pulled the float switch and cut it open with a razor blade, resoldered the wires onto the switch, cut a new piece of tubing, re-applied silicone inside the tube and around the wires, tested the switch, molded a new float from closed cell foam insulation (aerasol can) around the switch and soldered wires, re-installed the screw-in fitting, connected the 12 volt wires to the light, and filled the tank with a hose. The light comes on as it should. Now I will see if the fix lasts the same 15-18 years as the original!

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[bbeach]

How did you get the pvc to unscrew down in the bilge like that? I've tried and just gave up.