Notice:
The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.
I just purchased a 1980 Catalina 25 (Tako Kichi) and am thinking about replacing the "bladder" holding tank with a solid one. Does anyone have suggestions on where I can purchase one to fit in the same location as the present one, which is located under the seat on the port side? Does anyone think I should continue using the bladder tank?
I want to move mine there and never thought about a bladder tank. I have a square tank that is mounted under the v-berth. I takes up the whole space. I was considering a very small tank under the port bench. A bladder would make sence as it would use the space better.
I've never seen a 'bladder' tank. My C25 is an '83, which has the solid 'box' tank. I'd say if your tank shows no problems, don't go looking for work. Remember, 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it'. There'll be plenty of other opportunities to work on her. IMHO, boats require a 'triage' approach to maintenance, unless you're fortunate enough to have nothing but money and time.
If everything is working fine, Catalina Direct has a port side holding tank, alittle expensive like everything at CD. IMBO I would first make sure you have (2)strong thru hulls, with (2)seacocks, (1)Y valve, and (2)vented loops, everything double clamped with real ss clamps.
A couple of quick suggestions about holding tank installations.
Bladder type waste tanks are more prone to odors than rigid ones. The problem with flex bladders is that they don't allow the arobic bacteria to get enough oxygen. And in rigid tanks, thicker walls are better to reduce odor permeation.
I installed a 16gal rigid holding tank all the way forward under the V-berth. The space it occupies wasn't previously very useful for storage. I have dual 1" vent lines to provide lots of air for the good bacteria, and to carry off odors.
Thanks everyone for the replies. The reason I'm thinking of replacement is due to the odor. I believe the rubber bladder tank is original and my guess the material has broken down allowing odors to escape. Additionally, I will replace the hose. I'm leaning toward the hard tank which I would install in the same space as the bladder, under the port settee. Because of the configuration, it will have to be an angle shaped tank. Anyone suggest places to purchase a holding tank? I checked Catalina Direct but couldn't find any tanks.
Also, you might want to read articles by Peggy Hall, the "head mistress" who has written books and also responded on the web site for Catalina-Hunter-MacGregor you can Google. She knows her stuff for sure (not that Leon and others don't) and is THE expert. Good luck, Ron, Orion srsk SW FL
Catalina Direct has hundreds of items not listed on their website. I bought a catalog years ago and they send me updates for free. They offer 4 holding tanks for the C25. I and others suggest the thicker models for durability and odors. E1680 Holding Tank Dinette Economy $65.10 Z1988 Holding Tank Dinette Heavy Duty $120.00 E1555 Holding Tank Traditional Economy $68.30 Z1987 Holding Tank Traditional Heavy Duty $140.00 These have the angles that will fit your boat. You could call them with questions and availability. 916- 843- 1971 Good luck and I hope everything comes out OK!
Mark, that was a really valuable post! As a website designer, I know that many companies do not put their entire inventory online, had never thought though to seek out a boat equipment suppliers catalog!
I bet I'm not the only to ask them for one this week!
Thanks for the info. I'm going to call them tomorrow and see if I can purchase a catalog and also get some dimensions on the tanks. I went out to the Tako Kitchi today with the former owner and got loads of information from him. He told me that the marine tank was added on by a previous owner as she had a porta-potty orginally.
Bob - I took a close look at the "bladder" and it is for fuel and French made. Wouldn't recommend it. Makes me nervous that it could get punctured
Tony - would you have a picture of your tank as it presently sits? I'm not sure if I will have to move some hoses to make room for the hard tank.
Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ. The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.