Suggestions needed: I purchased the new to me C&C Landfall 35 that had been "sitting" for a number of years. I've painstakingly gone through systems to get everything functional and replaced items that needed updates.
So, after several outings on the boat, it was determined that it may be a good idea to pump out the holding tank to reduce a growing odor in the boat. Well the one thing that wasn't checked in my systems review was the waste fitting at the deck which our harbormaster and I have determined has corroded itself closed over the years of inactivity. I've tried several deck keys and tools (also using a vise grip to serve as an extension to the tool), an application of liquid wrench, and finally a punch with a plastic tipped mallet to try and free the deck fitting. No luck. I just can get enough purchase on the tips of the tool into the holes in the deck fitting lid as they're only several mm deep. Should I drill the holes deeper? My next approach is going to involve heat, but here's where the dilemma begins- Is adding heat to the deck fitting something that may ignite the build-up of methane inside the tank? Can I possibly blow myself and the boat up using a butane torch to heat the fitting before beating it into submission? I've generally had good luck with applying heat to free corrosion caused by dissimilar metals, but the fill cap and flange both appear to be chromed bronze and I suspect the bonding has occurred due to the corrosive nature of what's in the tank. Has anyone come up with a "super tool" that can unscrew the most stubborn deck fills? I also haven't found below deck access to the deck fitting flange, so I have no idea if it is through bolted to the deck with nuts below, or if it is simply screwed in place? While I don't think the tank is anywhere near full, I'd prefer not to spend the entire summer on a boat that smells like a dog kennel so whatever help is out there, I'm open to suggestions. Chuck Gilchrest Half Magic 1983 LF 35 Padanaram, MA
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