Posted by JRP on 11/08/17 - 2:36 PM
#8
gypsmjim wrote:
OK, it's a 2017 150 Montauk.
The pickup line is a forward facing scoop located on the bottom of the hull. No way I could feed the pump with anti-freeze unless the whole boat was immersed in a bath of it.
I have not deliberately used the live well. The seacock was open when I took delivery of the boat. The first trip out the live well filled with water, just from the water being forced thru the scoop. I took the standpipe off to drain the water, and then closed the seacock. Next trip (with the standpipe off) I had water puddling in the live well, which came up thru the open drain port. Then I put a plug in the drain hole and used the live well for storage. No further water issues.
When i put the boat away for winter i opened the seacock back up. No water came out. The plug was also removed to let it breathe.
Access to the seacock is thru a 6" inspection port. Its hard enough to reach the handle, much less work on the pump. Pulling hoses doesn't look like an option.
It can be tricky working hose clamps in a tight space. But that is how it was installed, and may someday need to be replaced. So there should be enough space to access the pump, hoses, thru-hull etc.
If you do decide to go that route, you can take the opportunity to add a "T" valve spliced between the thru-hull and the pump. That way you can leave a section of hose attached at the T fitting, and open the valve to divert the source for winterizing. Stick the hose in a gallon jug of non-toxic anti-freeze, and turn on on the pump.
It would take a little time and effort this year, but from then on it would be a matter of about two minutes to winterize the live-well pump. Really a shame Boston Whaler doesn't build this in to the plumbing at the factory. I guess they've been down in Florida too long.