Black tank access

[wasi1961]

Is it a bad idea to cut an access hole in my black water tank? I'd like to get in there and muck it out. We just got the boat and the tank smells a bit and looks like it could use a scrubbing inside

[Spindrift NH]

Are you for real? I hope this is just a case of mistyping. The black water tank holds human waste, it’s likely to have a bad smell and be a little dirty looking inside. Best thing is to be sure your vent tube is of adequate size and clear for optimum air circulation, that’ll help with the smell. Leave the scrubbing for the deck!

[Uncle Bob]

^^^^
Wot he said and I would add, half fill the tank with water and detergent, go for a spirited sail and return and pump it out, should perform all the cleaning required.

[peghall]

You can install an inspection port that has a threaded cap...They're available in several sizes 3" - 6" This was the first one to come up in a google search
https://www.freeportmarine.com/becks...out-clear.html , posted only to show you what inspection ports look like. I'm sure they're also available in OZ.


Sodium percarbonate does an excellent job of dissolving sludge (muck). A strong solution of detergent and water is what I'd use to clean the tank walls.


--Peggie

[bil56]

ANY tank (water, diesel, blak/grey waters) should have an inspection hatch.

and check that you have an anti-odor carbon filter (limited lifespan) ...

./.

[goboatingnow]

I regularly reach in with a scrubber brush through my holding tank inspection and clean it and disinfect it. Arm goes in to the shoulder quite handily.

( I worked on farms as a boy , sh1t holds no fear for me )

[SteveSails]

I had a 1980 Hunter Cherubini 37 and the original factory holding tank was aluminum, bad idea. By 2003 when the boat was new to me the holding tank was like swiss cheese, replaced it with plastic and installed an inspection port, no more smell.
More than likely by now your original aluminum tank was replaced but if not it should be done, and with an inspection port.