Leaking Flexible Watertank

[Calluna]

We have a Plastimo flexible triangular watertank in the forepeak, which leaks when we go sailing. The tank itself is fine and it's corners are tied down, but we think that the screw connections undo themselves slightly as the tank flexes when the bow bounces up and down. We've done them up as tightly as possible, but there is still a problem, especially with the forward one (the outlet). We are considering glueing/sealing the threads, but would like to be able to remove the tank for cleaning. Any other suggestions?

Heather



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[Spyro]

I had a leaking flexible tank it wasn't the threads or sealing rings but it was actually where the inlet and outlet connected onto the flexible material of the tank I repaired with "aquasure" a glue which is flexible when cured and normally used for neoprene. It's available at most chandlers.
If it is the threads working loose like you say then try making them a bit tighter with PTFE tape

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[LeytonC]

I thought PTFE tape was for use with metal threads only and could cause
plastic things to split (I might be wrong here, but i thought i read it on the
forum)

I think loctite (?) do an antishake thread compound, that may be better
but i would not like to get any in the tank!

Hope this helps

<hr width=100% size=1>Thanks

Leyton
(EXTAR Solutions - Software that works for you)

 

[Calluna]

It didn't look like that bit was leaking, but it would be difficult to spot a leak path with the tank in its cover so I'll go and test it again - I think I've got some aquasure glue as it sounds like the stuff I've used it to mend a wetsuit.

I've tried putting PTFE tape on the threads and that made no difference, and I'm still not convinced about using a screw locking compound on the plastic threads but might end up trying it anyway. We don't usually drink the water from the tank, but that's probably because it's emptied itself into the bilge by the time we get round to needing it.

Thanks,

Heather

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[paulrossall]

I think I may have a Plastimo replacement inner in my workshed which is unused. If so I would let it go at a reasonable price . Are you interested. In my experience the threads do not cause a problem, it is normally a small hole/rip of some sort in the inner bag. In case you do not know the plastimo bags consist of a strong protective outer bag which contains a replaceable inner bag.

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[Calluna]

We've taken the inner out and it seems fine, it's under a year old and wasn't used last season - that's why I'm so confused. The tank itself has no leaks and the inlet and outlet srew threads are firmly glued/welded to the tank and aren't leaking either. If the tank is completely filled you can shake it about and it won't leak - but as soon as you go sailing or leave the boat bouncing up and down on a mooring, the contents of the tank end up in the bilge!

Heather

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[paulrossall]

Have you got a leak on the pipe that runs from your tank to the galley and/or heads or wherever the water feeds to? When you have the tank full have you tried appling pressure to it to see if it starts leaking? By pressure I mean sit on it or something similar. Does it only leak when you heal the boat? Must be an obvious answer, you just have to persevere! Good luck. Paul

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