Leak in water system

[Ron Everson]

I'm looking at a 1989 Bayliner 2755 Sunbridge that has a leak in the potable water system. It apparently showed up last year during the one time that the owner used the boat. It has been professionally winterized each year by the dry storage yard where the owner stored the boat. I'm wondering how difficult it is to locate and fix a leak like this. They tell me that it shows up in the bilge and they don't see any sign of it in the cabin. I would appreciate any advice other than "run like he** the other way".

 

[rwidman]

Re: Leak in water system

If it is leaking in a place that's accessible, it shouldn't be very hard to find and fix. A fresh water system is pretty simple. It's probably leaking at a fitting, less likely but possible, is a ruptured or punctured waterline. Pressurize the system and look (or feel) for the leak. I wouldn't turn down an otherwise good boat for something this simple.

 

[Boatin Bob]

Re: Leak in water system

If it's not very obvious then what I would do is disconnect the hot water lines and try just pressurizing the cold, that way at least you'll eliminate half of the lines. The pressure pump should come on every time the pressure drops below whatever the switch is set for so try it first and time how long between pump cycles and then start eliminating.

 

[flashback]

Re: Leak in water system

Hi Ron, I think I would probably replace all the lines with new. those line can get pretty nasty after 15 years. Use the old ones to fish in the new ones, its fairly easy in most cases..

 

[cuzner]

Re: Leak in water system

Hey Ron...first I,d make sure the water is coming from where they say. Maybe add a little food coloring or green rv anti freeze in the system, and see if water in bilge turns color, might help you spot where the leak is coming from too.if its just a line you can get at no problem too fix, pump is easy to replace, but gonna cost some money. Depending on the location of the holding tank, should be no problem too replace... but again its gonna cost.Those systems do get nasty!!!I duoche mine twice a year... water and vinegar, and a little bleach. Still don't use it for drinking( maybe for the dog) .<br /><br /><br /> good luck<br /> Jim

 

[roscoe]

Re: Leak in water system

Not good to mix acid with bleach.

 

[Ron Everson]

Re: Leak in water system

Thanks for the good information. I figured that finding and fixing the leak would be a small annoyance and hopefully wouldn't involve completely dismantling the cabin. I hope to jump on this deal soon, if the better half agrees. The price is definitely right.