Ball Valve Identity

[svcattales]

I have ball valves attached to thru hulls below the water line. The only identifying marks are the letters XL on the T-handles. The body of valve is black plastic or marelon, the T-handles are red, and there are blue circles in the center of T-handle. I tried searching the net to no avail. Anyone know what these valves are made of and whether they are acceptable below the waterline?

We're hauling the boat next month so I need to decide whether to replace them. Thanks.

[delmarrey]

There are a few different brands out there. If it's old or an import you may never find a duplicate brand.

But they are permissable below the water line! This one is a Forespar.

[GordMay]

Forespar’s “Marelon” is a proprietary glass-reinforced nylon plastic, and their Marelon Ball Valves/Sea Cocks etc. have been UL tested per ABYC standards.

Most, (if not all - I know of no other approved 'plastic' valve), other “plastic” ball valves are entirely unsuitable for marine use. If you cannot identify it as "Marelon", replace it.

[Catamount]

You'll note that the picture of the Forespar Marelon ball valve shown above has a blue circle with a sticker that says "RC." Other Forespar Marelon products that I've used have also been labeled "RC Marine."

I would go with Gord's advice. If you can't positively identify it as being Marelon (e.g. Forespar/RC Marine), then it is suspect.

Regards,

Tim

[svcattales]

Thanks for all the help on the ball valves. The boat was made in France (Privilege Cat) so the composition is unknown, but the valves look well made and operate easily. Since I don't want to even think about them on some "dark and stormy night", I think I'll follow Gord's advice and replace them.

[Cotemar]

They are made by Randex (french company)

http://www.randex.fr/plastic_valves/ball_valves.html

They are used in a lot of French boats.

LX - DN 40 - 1-1/2" inch for Waste tank drain

LX - DN 25 - 1" inch for Toilet

LX - DN 20 - 3/4" inch for Sink & Shower