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Ocean Girl · 22-06-2009, 14:50

I did a search and didn't quite see what I was looking for, sorry if this has been asked before.
I'm removing my holding tank, THANK GOD, it is original and leaks, hence the thank God part. There is a down side to this and that is removing the holding tank

I am concerned that I might get the remnants of the er uh contents on my boat while maneuvering it out to the dock. I was going to wrap it in 2-3 garbage bags, but I'm still concerned. I was thinking maybe pour some kitty litter in it to solidify any um objectionable liquids. It already will be pumped out of course, but when ever I read about some poor soul removing his HT he also mentions the "clean up"
Anyone been down this road before? any input would be greatly appreciated.
Erika

Sailabel · 22-06-2009, 15:06

Hi, not a job that I'd look forward to

Not sure how large the tank is, but I'd sure pump it out, flush it with water and bleach, and flush it again. With a few complete bleach/water rinsings, I'd think that any 'objectionable' stuff would be minimized, and at least somewhat sanitized. I'm sure that you'll already have any cushions, etc. moved a long ways away. Keep plenty of old towels handy. I hadn't thought about the kitty litter thing, and trying to think if that'll leave more of a mess if it falls out of the hose ports.

But for me, clean it out the best you can, have plenty of towels and disinfectant.

Gosh, I hope my tank doesn't start leaking. It's built in the keel cavity right underneath the engine. Ugggh.

Keep us posted on how this turns out....

Oh, and I'd be more than willing to help you get the tank out of the boat, but I think I'm busy that day

Steve

Randy · 22-06-2009, 15:07

There is a kind of painters plastic (plastic one side - paper other) that could be taped down along the path to the dock. The paper can absorb some liquid and the plastic prevents it from getting on your boat - in theory and cross your fingers but not while carrying it out

Viking Sailor · 22-06-2009, 15:11

Erika,

Suggest get a bunch of cheap painting tarps. The ones I'm thinking of have paper on one side and plastic sheet on the other. Just cover everything with the tarps paper side up. Oh, and you could wrap and tape a tarp around the tank as you pull it out.

Best of luck,

Paul

Sandero · 22-06-2009, 15:22

Why are you removing it? Isn't there some some sort of law which compels one to HAVE an HT?

pjbsailing · 22-06-2009, 15:26

Could be worse. I have a 135 gallon holding tank to remove. The nimrods that had the boat before us converted the forward freshwater aluminum tank to a holding tank. Supposed to tackle that one this fall. There is no carrying this one out. Looks like power nippers, and lots of ventilation.

Ocean Girl · 22-06-2009, 15:26

Wow, such great input in 30 seconds flat-You guys are good! are you sure your busy steve? steve? are you there? ello ello?
The tarps are a great idea but it could make things slippery when walking maneuvering-can you picture the fall? well I can, I like the sticky side down drape idea. The HT is coming out Thursday my mum is helping me.
If you don't hear from me by friday, send the Coasties, oh and I want to be buried at sea like a Viking, except dont burn my pretty boat, I've got a derelict row boat that will do just fine.

Erika

Randy · 22-06-2009, 15:31

The paper keeps it from getting slippery

Ocean Girl · 22-06-2009, 15:36

I am replacing the HT, I would never pump overboard, I don't even like doing it offshore let alone in a crowded marina. I had a neighbor fall overboard while a wee bit tipsy, he drank gallons of the marina water, I monitored him for a few days cause I was convinced he'd suffer from a wicked pneumonia or some sort of killer bacteria, (I'm a nurse) but he is strong and after a few days the "crackles" were gone from his lungs. We have a lot of people around here that don't use a pump out service so where does it go?
Thanks for the input,
Erika

pjbsailing-I'd love to give ya words of encouragement......I got nothing

Chief Engineer · 22-06-2009, 16:20

Bleach, a good respirator, double rubber gloves. eye protection.

I look like a spaceman when I do these jobs.

If you can cut a hole in the tank, you can use a wetvac to get some of the clods out.

Otherwise...plug every orifice.....plan your removal moves...so you don't get caught between a bulkhead/door or hard place.

Cheechako · 22-06-2009, 16:25

I like the kitty litter idea, it cant be too big in a cape dory 30 right? BTW, I got a custom 3/8 thick plastic one made reasonable and fast from: Water Tanks, Plastic Tanks, RV Tanks, Custom Plastic Tanks they will put the fittings wherever you want them.

Ocean Girl · 22-06-2009, 16:35

Thanks for the input, paper backed drapes, I'm removing my head door just in case it wont fit ( I'm told it will though), I have a gallon of bleach at the ready, respirator,gloves, shower at the waiting(for both Ocean Girls).