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Head System Component Identification

Discussion in 'Technical Discussion' started by jac, Aug 19, 2013.

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  1. jac, Aug 19, 2013
    #1
    jac

    jac New Member

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    Hi All,

    I don't know what this component is and was hoping for some assistance. Please take a look at the attached pictures. The component in question is the hose attached the the PVC 90 elbow. The other end of the black hose terminates at the aluminum device mounted under the vanity top in the master head. The number atop (third image) is 13217. That 90 elbow is between the holding tank and the overboard discharge pump. The aluminum housing at the other end appears to be wired to a switch for the overboard discharge pump.

    This is part of a vacuflush system installed on a Grand Banks 42 Motoryacht. I am uncertain if this is original equipment or not.

    My concern is that this is allowing the system to vent into the head room. I'm curious what purpose this apparatus serves and what happens should I remove it?

    Thanks.

    Attached Files:

  2. Capt Ralph, Aug 19, 2013
    #2
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    My first idea is it's a pressure switch. When your pumping it closes and when the pump cycle is finished, no pressure on switch, it would turn your pump off.

    You would push and hold or flip a switch button to start the cycle and this pressure switch would stop the pump when empty, saving your pump from running dry.

    Reminds me of old Galley Maid stuff I have worked on in old ChoeyLee's.
  3. Pascal, Aug 19, 2013
    #3
    Pascal

    Pascal Senior Member

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    Actually it is under suction not pressure, if indeed it is between the holding tank and the pump. Never seen that before...
  4. K1W1, Aug 19, 2013
    #4
    K1W1

    K1W1 Senior Member

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  5. jac, Aug 19, 2013
    #5
    jac

    jac New Member

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    I'll take a closer look at the switch text this evening. I have no legible picture of it.

    The discharge line on this particular installation has a single exit from the holding tank which goes to a tee -- one branch to the deck fitting and the other to the overboard discharge pump (passing through the 90 with the black hose attached). Under which scenarios would the vacuum breaker be necessary in this location?

    Sorry about the image sizes -- first time; I'll be more mindful in the future.
  6. dennismc, Aug 19, 2013
    #6
    dennismc

    dennismc Senior Member

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    If it is a vac brkr, it should have open end to atmos. you may get sewer gas odor from it if internal vented.
  7. jac, Aug 19, 2013
    #7
    jac

    jac New Member

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    If it is a vacuum breaker, is there any reason for it to be mounted in the head proper rather than the engine room? Seems silly if there is a possibility of odor seepage.
  8. Capt Ralph, Aug 19, 2013
    #8
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    It's a switch, Pascal is correct on vacuum, I misread the post. Same principal of operation; secondary control of the pump.
  9. captholli, Aug 19, 2013
    #9
    captholli

    captholli Senior Member

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    Oberdorfer vacuum switch that closes electrical contacts by vacuum, either automatic or manually (little lever) as fluid travels throught the hose it creates a vacuum that pulls in the diaphram switch & contacts. Trace what looks like two conductor #12 wire coming out of the switch and see if it doesnt go to a pump that boosts your fluids/ solids along down the line. I would venture to say that this isnt standard equipment but was added as an after thought to alieviate a problem with that particular heads location. Are there any other heads aboard ? if so are they plumbed and wired the same. how is this vac. switch venting in your head compartment? the only way you should be getting any odor is if the rubber diaphram inside is perforated/rotten etc.