I bought a basic Katadyn 40e watermaker -- what else do I need?

[bene505]

I recently had the opportunity to get a good condition watermaker at a good price. Never having one before, what else do I need besides the basic unit?

I'm pretty sure I need some pre-filters or something. Is there a kit I ought to buy, or can I piece something together myself? Any advice appreciated.

Regards,
Brad

[bene505]

Just found ishipaco's thread here on CF, and his site.

I'll read up there first.

Regards,
Brad

[funjohnson]

I have a Katadyn 40E that I just installed, but still being in fresh water haven't had the chance to use it. You will need a pre-filter, but those can be picked-up from Homedepot if you want. The great part about this watermaker is that it's so simple to install and use.

[bene505]

Thanks Funjohnson,

I can't wait to use it.

If you haven't seen it, this site is fantastic:

http://www.katadyn.ishipaco.com/


Regards,
Brad

[svWindfall]

We have a Katadyn 160 - it's wonderful even after 2 years use. Take a LOT of prefilters and filters if you're in seawater. Watch where you make water (no diesel on the water or near anchored boats (sewer), and do NOT use chlorinated water anywhere near your watermaker system (ie rinsing out filters!) Do not use paper filters, only the reusable poly type - you can drag these behind the boat on a string to clean (really).
We use a 20micron (pre) then a 5 micron filter. Also, be sure to get pickling power if you're not going to use it for awhile, and/or use it every couple days to keep it in good condition. We use ours a lot with a new washing machine aboard (even with (2) 100 gallon tanks - But, we never worry about our water quality.
It's amazing how much water a boat can use, and how hard work (and expensive) it can be to carry jerry jugs from a dock back to a boat...if/when you can get good water! We've gave water to other cruisers who were out of fresh water so they could stay at a great tropic island anchorage longer.