shop vac for pump out head?

[ptsbug]

 I am curious as to how to empty the head holding tank if your not at a marina.
I am not accustomed to the marine stuff yet, and switching from the R.V. world is taking some time.
I was told to purchase a shop vac that could be used "extensively" for the head pump-out.
Any ideas?

[Paul]

Do you mean "exclusively?"

Wow.  Never heard of that method.  What do ya think that would smell like.  Sounds like a bad practical joke to me.

If you're using a portable head like others do on trailerables, just empty out during each stop over.  I have read the dump zone is 3nM off shore.  You'll want to verify this in your local sailing area.

Worse case senerio, with a portable head, is you take a shovel, dig a pit somewhere inconspicuously inshore, and deposit there.  Bury the "treasure" as it were.

Of course, if you're not using a portable head, but a marine head with holding tank, like "proper" sailboats have, then you're back to the marina option.

[spaul]

Wow PTbug,
Like others I'm not sure how to answer this either but I'm always willing to try.

Do determine as above whether you have a "porta potti" or holding tank system. I suspect  you already know and have a holding tank. Then you must find a marina to empty it or a "honey dipper" or the shop vac method. I would guess a vessel slightly larger than your holding tank that can be sealed would do the job. A 20 gallon barrel or plastic container would do. Then add a pipe that goes nearly to the bottom and one that only goes down from the top a few inches.
This would make in effect a temporary holding tank. Apply vacuum to the short pipe and you should be able to suck out most of your holding tank contents into the long pipe. Take to the house and pour into toilet. Option 2 would be to dispose at an RV disposal station which I think you'd be more pleased with.
This system will save  your shop vac.


Clothes pins required

Do let us know how this turns out.
The information above is deemed reliable but not necessarily accurate...... I love that real estate disclaimer so much I thought I'd use it here.

Steve Paul
Nashville, IN

[spaul]

PTbug,
Manufacturers do make holding tank pumps. If your situation fits, one could be installed to pump you out at an RV drop spot. This might require a through hull be installed if not there already. Remember the USCG has rules for devices that can accomodate an illegal discharge. They are permitted if they can be locked and in most waters they must be locked.
Do check your local rules before making plumbing changes.

Buenos Suerte,
Steve Paul
Nashville, In