Lubricating head pump

[exranger]

Ok, new to this kind of PM -- I have heard you need to lubricate the pump handle arm (the part that goes into the actual head when you pump it)

What kind of oil does one use??

[AnchorageGuy]

Been using Superlube for years. Also flush a half cup of vinegar and water followed by a half cup of vegetable oil weekly.

[David M]

West marine sells a similar product.

Wilcox Crittenden - Accessories

[AnchorageGuy]

I would be willing to bet a little vinegar and vegetable oil is a whole lot cheaper.

[exranger]

Ok, some of the lube AND the vinegar and oil flush??

[AnchorageGuy]

We have a Raritan PHII that we did a rebuild on once in over eight years. But we do the weekly maintenance EVERY week.

[Wildrice]

Replacing my jabsco head and was wondering if anyone puts raw water strainers before the head too keep the critters out? One guy told me he put chlorine tablets in his raw water strainer for his A/C so maybe it will work on the head also?

Keith

PS Boater-world has a deal on the jabsco manual $100. after $50.00 gift card

[GordMay]

Absolutely, put a strainer in the intake line. See the rough sketch at <Vented Loops>
http://www.cruisersforum.com/gallery...=500&userid=79

The holding tank vents have been omitted for clarity.

Chlorine tablets are used in A-C condensate drip pans, to prevent unwanted “biology” in exposed standing water.
I wouldn’t use chlorine in my toilet system.

[Vasco]

The Jabscos are the easiest heads to lube. Just undo the big plastic nut and take out the pump plunger, lube the pump wall with vaseline. I do this once a week, much more satisfactory than pouring veg oil in the head.

[Holding Pattern]

A little Head Dressing.... some vinegar and veg oil works great... plus if you've a sense of humour, it adds a spectacular irridescent sheen to your goo.

[exranger]

OK, So, if I put vinegar and then veg oil down the head, I DON'T have to use superlube or take the pump cover off?

By the way, I have 2 Jabsco heads, but they don't seem to have some big plastic nut. I do have a spare Wilcox, was going to replace the one Jabsco because it no longer pumps intake water in (I guess it needs a rebuild?). Or should I just rebuild the Jabsco? Some people on this forum have really trashed the Jabscos! Maybe the spare Wilcox is better?

[Vasco]

exranger,

Your Jabsco just needs a new top valve gasket. I know a lot of folks badmouth them but I've had them for twenty years and have had good service from them and I cruise six months a year so they get a workout. If yours doesn't have a big plastic nut on top of the pump housing it is a real old one maybe before 1995. Your best bet is to take the top of the pump shaft off, clean and lube it. Pouring oil in the head doesn't do anything much and if you've got a holding tank it coats the top on the tank and prevents proper ventilation. Watch for when the Jabscos go on sale, you can pick one up for about $100 and it will fit the same footprint. This is a better deal than buying the rebuild kit for $70. If you email To: michael.irving@itt.com
and tell him your top valve gasket is shot he might send you a new one as they have improved them.

[Wildrice]

Thanks Gord


I read in Peggy Halls story that it's not a good idea to put veggie oil in the holding tank as it covers the top blocking air to the stew slowing the aerobic action. I also ordered Peggy Halls book.

Thanks
Keith

[Jentine]

IMHO, the only proper way to maintain a Jabsco toilet is to remove the four floor fastening bolts, disconnect the water intake and exhaust and throw the whole thing in the nearest dumpster.
Replace it with a more suitable marine product that lasts more than two years without a major rebuild.

[GordMay]

I think Jim reflects the conventional wisdom on Jabsco toilets; but our Jabsco (Bryden Boy) was 16 years old when we sold “Southbound”. The last 9 years were full-time live-aboard (couple).
Never required service on any part of the toilet.
Replaced sclerotic hoses.