Thru hull fittings

[realtorknox]

I have an '86 Albin 27 FC and discovered seacock fittings with problems. One was cracked and another was partially crushed. I don't remember hitting anything and the liftout cleared the seacocks. All the fittings appear to be original and I'm going to replace. Any advise on source for new fittings and what to watch for when replacing would be appreciated. Thanks in advance, Randall "Manatee" North Ft. Myers, Fl

[WillieC]

Go to Marine How To for an exhaustive and correct way how to do things.

https://marinehowto.com/

Read everything on this site. Then buy a canoe.

[Bearkeley]

Our 27 was updated with Forespar Marelon thru hulls. It’s 4 years old (and approx 1500 hrs) and has done a great job, until last week. We excercise the seacocks every 2 months but somehow, the handle to the engine intake decided to break off. 5 hours of towing and almost another $500 for hauling out and about 5 minutes of replacement, we are back in the water!

Lesson learned: research brass thru hulls.... most likely will replace all.

[WillieC]

That is not a good commercial for Marelon. Noted!

[realtorknox]

Thank you Willie C. for the repair video and also to Bearkeley for the experience with Marelon. My sailboat had 3 Marelon thru hull valves and lucky for me lasted my 5 years ownership. Thanks again, Randall "Manatee" 27 FC North Fort Myers, Fl

[Nancy]

I think I'd stick with bronze seacocks. Marelon has worked well for us for plain thru-hulls such as drains.

[realtorknox]

Sorry I didn't ask this in my original post but when you get older your brain can only squeeze out one thought at a time. My Albin is an occasional cruiser meaning a week long trip each month for 7 to 8 months. I close seacocks when I return and open when leaving. I'm assuming more frequent usage will keep the valve operating smoother than if opened and closed once or twice a season. This make any sense?

[RobS]

Yes makes 100% sense. Just like with us, there is no substitute for regular exercise to keep things moving as they should......

[WillieC]

If only we had to bend 90 degrees once a month...now that's an exercise plan I can go with!

[Sunsetrider]

Boy does that hit home!