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

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