Dave Gerr - Boat Mechanical Systems Handbook-How to Design, Install, and Recognize Proper Systems in Boats

(Rick Simeone) #1

CHAPTER 21


Let’s face it. The less time you spend think-
ing about your boat’s toilet, the better. Then
let’s face it again. The less time you spend
thinking about your boat’s toilet, the better.
What this means, of course, is that it’s worth
spending some time thinking about your
boat’s toilet. After all, if you can install a com-
plete head/toilet system that is trouble-free to
start with, then it won’t need thought later.
Even better, you or the crew won’t have to
unclog it either.
Over the last thirty-five or so years of
sailing, building, and designing boats, I’ve
finally settled on the marine toilet and the fit-
tings and attachments I prefer. It’s simple,
inexpensive, and more trouble- and odor-free
than any other system that I and my clients
have used. Before I get to describing my
favorite head, I should say that I’ve had fine
results with many other toilet systems, from
Groco to SeaLand, Wilcox, Raritan, Head-
hunter, and more. Properly engineered and
installed, all these manufacturers make

excellent products. We’ll review the com-
plete assortment of standard marine toilets
later, but first let’s get a feel for a reliable
toilet-plumbing system—a marine sanitation
system—by examining my personal ideal.

Figure 21-1. Blakes Lavac head (Courtesy
Blakes)

My Favorite Head:


Thoughts and


Recommendations on


Marine Toilets and


Installations

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