Plastic skin fittings

[Wansworth]

Are they fit for purpose or should I be looking at Bronze which is err more Expensive ?

 

[Pasarell]

There are proper approved versions like True Design and there are a bunch of unapproved copies. There are also just plastic which are designed for above water use and make no claims about use under water.
True Design and I think one other make are fully approved and tested and are made of a composite material. Just be careful of which type you buy

 

[Norman_E]

I have all Tru-Design skin fittings and ball valves. They are very well made and reliable. They can be fitted with collars between ball valve and hull to resist any forces trying to break the fitting by sideways force. My only slight concern is that a fire might melt them, though I think that any boat fire hot enough to melt one would probably destroy the boat anyway. Some people think that it is best to use bronze for the seacock in the engine room because of fire/heat concerns.

 

[geem]

We have Merelon. Glass reinforced plastic. Very substantial.

 

[vyv_cox]

Not sure about the 'more expensive'. Bronze fittings seem to have become cheaper and DZR, which is a totally reliable substitute, cheaper still. Last time I checked Marelon was about the same.