[Salt shaker]

hi all, new here with a new to me 3100 '94. boat has a vacuflush and macerator and im just wondering the best way to use and maintain it. the first time i tried to pump out, nothing sucked, and putting water in the waste hole, it just backed up over the gunnel. a freind with a a '96 helped me but was confused also, so i figured id ask. i think i have that valve flipped correctly now. also, what do you put in the tank and how often. a freind recommended the west marine treatment stuff.

any help / advice would be great! thanks

[Jim Gilly]

I think you will find any quality tank additive (West Marine) will do a good job, try several till you get results you like. Just follow the manufacturer's directions, pouring the proper volume/quantity into your toilet and then flush. I too have experienced difficulty pumping out my tank, takes a pretty good suction on some Tiaras, but you have a macerator; so run out 3 miles, turn the valves to overboard discharge and pump out your tank. Frustrating to have to do that, but at least it works. If you know you are going off shore, full the tank to full with fresh water and pump all out when off shore. Helps clean things up. Change your charcoal filter regularly too, unless you like that odor!

[Uhehner]

Check the overboard vent. I had trouble with the holding tank collaping in on itself because the pumpout suction was great but the vent was plugged. The nasty stuff in the holding tank corroded the vent screen shut. I removed the screens with a dental pick and have not had a problem since. Those screens are necessary only on the fuel tanks. They also serve to keep bugs out so check them now and then. I also had an engine stalling problem once caused by the fuel tank vent which I replaced and cured the problem. If your water tank or fuel tank fill keeps backing up as you add water or fuel, check the vent. As you put volume in, air has to come out. Listen for a hissing sound when you crack the cap, that should give you a clue. There should never be a pressure or a vacuum in your tanks. Capt. George

[Salt shaker]

Hi all, sorry never got back here. The y valve is now in the correct position and everything seems to be pumping correctly. Thanks! Does anyone know how to turn off the sump pump for winter storage?