Best way to replace a self-baler diaphragm

[Telecaster]

Is it necessary to remove my aluminum floor in my MKIIC to replace the baler diaphragm? I have one missing and bought a couple spares and have never removed the floor before (or the engine from the transom). Maybe there's a trick to pushing them in?

 

[nobrainsd]

Re: Best way to replace a self-baler diaphragm

Getting the small rubber "stem" into the center hole of the plastic diaphragm from the outside can be a challenge. I did not feel comfortable pushing very hard against the center of the rubber diaphragm because I didn't want to break the plastic frame (not very strong). I also did not want to lubricate the diaphragm stem with silicone, because that would just make it easier to come out when draining through the bailer. I placed my replacement diaphram in the tube. Folded the flat rubber disc over so I could see through the wedges in the plastic diaphram frame, then reached through with some small forceps to grab where the stem tip was protruding through the frame hole. Then it was easy to just push the forceps in, pulling on the stem and seating the stem all of the way into the plastic frame. If you can get a hold of that stem tip it is easy to pull the stem and diaphragm into position. Curved tip forceps are easier to do this with, but I used straight small forceps. Obviously a really easy thing to do if you remove the floor, but it isn't required.

 

[Telecaster]

Re: Best way to replace a self-baler diaphragm

Getting the small rubber "stem" into the center hole of the plastic diaphragm from the outside can be a challenge. I did not feel comfortable pushing very hard against the center of the rubber diaphragm because I didn't want to break the plastic frame (not very strong). I also did not want to lubricate the diaphragm stem with silicone, because that would just make it easier to come out when draining through the bailer. I placed my replacement diaphram in the tube. Folded the flat rubber disc over so I could see through the wedges in the plastic diaphram frame, then reached through with some small forceps to grab where the stem tip was protruding through the frame hole. Then it was easy to just push the forceps in, pulling on the stem and seating the stem all of the way into the plastic frame. If you can get a hold of that stem tip it is easy to pull the stem and diaphragm into position. Curved tip forceps are easier to do this with, but I used straight small forceps. Obviously a really easy thing to do if you remove the floor, but it isn't required.

This sounds like an exercise in patience. I need to find some small curved forceps, any idea where to find them? Thanks.

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: Best way to replace a self-baler diaphragm

It's easy, just fold the diaphragm by middle, with sib at a proper height, push folded diaphragm until pin fits in middle center base hole, hold it there, with other hand, pull rubber tip untill complete tip is inserted on valve base, if fingers cannot be used, try proper tool to do so. It's sometimes usefull to remove complete floor to clean marine coat, clean debris, sand, etc.

Would recommend to place at tip's end a small top made from silicone, we usually place mega grey silicone nozzle onto diaphragm tip, squirt some silicone, remove noozle and that's it, let dry. This top will prevent that when water drains out from flooded sib at idle/planning speed or at a boat ramp, water pressure won't push off the diaphragm out of the valve. A stupid way of losing one. It's just in case, one never knows.

Happy Boating

 

[Telecaster]

Re: Best way to replace a self-baler diaphragm

I managed to get the tip in and get hold of it with forceps; however, I couldn't get enough push to snap it in place as the forceps eventually lost grip. I managed to rip off the diaphragm post now and must get another one. I'm thinking I'll need to at least take out part of the floor. I have no idea how to do that. My nearest Z dealer is 2.5 hours away so this will need to wait until fall I guess. I still have one functioning baler.

 

[Peter_C]

Re: Best way to replace a self-baler diaphragm

For whatever reason the replacement diaphragms for my boat, were slightly larger at the stem. I drilled them out to accommodate the larger new stems. *shrugs*

 

[nobrainsd]

Re: Best way to replace a self-baler diaphragm

One bailer works fine, unless you get swamped (then your bailing by hand anyways).

I like the dab of silicone caulk idea. I've lost these diaphragms a couple of times.

Taking the floor up isn't all that big of a deal. I do it with my boat still on the trailer. Even deflated I haven't dropped the 40, but you could throw a strap around the outboard if you were concerned. Do you have the manual for the boat? It shows the steps clearly. PM me and I can scan a copy if you don't have it. To do this job I would just undo the rails and floor sections and slide the back section forward just enough to gain access.

Hmm, I don't know of the proper source for a narrow curved forcep. Mine clicked and locked closed too. I bought them at a gun show. Google maybe? Sure was easy with a headlamp or an assistant with a flashlight.

Rode behind my boat today on a sit down hydrofoil and landed an air roll (inverted jump). Who needs a big boat to have fun?

 

[jondavies]

Re: Best way to replace a self-baler diaphragm

A well-stocked fishing tackle store (particularly one that caters to flyfishermen) would have straight and curved foreceps (for removing hooks from fish).