Specifications

SECTION SEVEN
PLUMBING SYSTEMS
Plumbing Systems
We have attempted to keep your plumbing systems as simple as possible, expecially where thru hull
fittings and plumbing hose are concerned. Wherever possible water discharge is above the water
line and where two items can use a common water line thru-hull, this is accomplished. What follows
then is a general description of the plumbing system with a detailed plumbing diagram of your partic-
ular model Clipper sailboat. You should become quite familiar with this system and constantly check
it over to keep fresh water in your tanks and sea water outside of your boat.
In cooler regions where below freezing temperatures are anticipated, the ENTIRE PLUMBING SYS-
TEM MUST BE DRAINED. It is extremely important to put about one quart of permanent type
antifreeze to be pumped into the entire marine toilet. This is important because of the cracking of
frozen water in and about the head. The addition of antifreeze would be a good practice with any
other accessories where water may set or collect during a freeze.
FRESH WATER TANKS
A standard plastic fresh water tank is located either in the bow or midship of your boat. Consult the
plumbing diagram for the exact location of the water tank and its size and gallonage. Care must be
taken so that the AIR VENT HOLE IN THE FILTER CAP OR THE VENT TUBE IS NOT PLUGGED
OR IT WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE TO PUMP WATER FROM THE TANK.
FRESH WATER HAND PUMP AND SINK: The lever type pump in the sink on most models has a
ball check valve to hold the vacuum on the return stroke. If the pump fails to operate after three or
four strokes, first check water tank and the air vent hole in the filter cap. The tank should be full and
the vent clear. If difficulty is still experienced, just disconnect the intake hose at the pump and blow
through to the tank to clear any possible blockage, you might also check to see that the hose is not
kinked or have some heavy object pressing against it to keep it closed. If the hose is clear, and the
pump still does not work properly, disassemble the pump and look for particles blocking the internal
check valve.
The stainless steel sink drains to a thru-hull directly below the galley area. On some models the
sink may drain into a 5 gallon container to eliminate the thru-hull. In this case please check the
container so that it does not overflow.
Bilge Pumps
Every boat should be equipped with at least one MANUAL BILGE PUMP, if for no other reason than
to get rid of the melted ice water in the bilge. Some models the bilge pump is standard and has
already been installed on your boat. If this is the case it is easily accessible and need only have a
handle placed in it and pump. All factory installed bilge pumps have the pickup hose secured to the
bilge. A clear plastic hose is used for the discharge line on the bilge pump.