Four winns FUNSHIP - System.maintenance; Clean.vents.and.screens; Winterizing.the.water.system; J.-.7. System.maintenance

Owner’s Manual Page 79Water and Waste Systems - Section J
NOTICE
Always winterize the fresh water system prior
to winterization of the hull drainage (bilge
pump) system.
Draining the system as mentioned can be very tedious
and an incomplete job can result in expensive repairs.
The use of nontoxic antifreeze (such as RV anti-
f
reeze) designed for fresh water systems considerably
reduces the work necessary and is a more positive
means of winterizing the system. Follow the directions
included with the antifreeze solution.
To winterize:
1. Turn on the water pump/faucet and drain the
water tank. The water tanks on some models can
be drained by removing the withdrawal hose from
the tank and allowing water to drain into the bilge.
NOTICE
DO NOT run the water pump without water
in the system. Pump damage can result.
Be watchful and turn the pump off as soon
as the tank becomes empty.
2. Add 1/2 gallon of RV non-toxic antifreeze to the
water tank.
3. Turn ON the pump until undiluted antifreeze
i
s seen.
Use only nontoxic antifreeze solutions such
as RV antifreeze. DO NOT use ethylene glycol
solutions (the type that is used in engine
coolant systems). These are toxic.
NOTICE
Be sure to wipe up any antifreeze that has
been spilled on the berglass surfaces to
prevent possible discoloration or damage
to the gel coat.
Depending upon options and model, additional infor-
m
ation by the equipment manufacturers is included
in the owner’s packet. Also, refer to Section R for
Maintenance.
It will be necessary to remove the top holding tank
o
ftheportableheadtollwithwater.Refertothe
manufacturer’s literature included in the owner’s
packet regarding the use, care and maintenance
of the porta potti.
J - 7 SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
Be sure the battery(s) in the boat are properly
charged. Operating the pressure pump from a
battery with a low charge will result in pump cycling.
This could lead to premature pump failure.
The decomposition of waste produces
methane, a colorless, odorless gas that is
lighter than air, combustible, and extremely
lethal. Always provide sufcient ventilation
when effecting repairs to the waste system
and allow no odor from the waste system to
go unresolved.
A. Clean Vents and Screens
Periodically, inspect the water tank vents and thru-hull
ventttingsforanydirt,wax,etc.Carefullyremove
any obstruction with a pipe cleaner or similar device.
Be sure not to puncture any screens. T
he stainless
steel vent cap is not removable.
NOTICE
Failure to keep the water tank vent tting clean
will cause excessive pressure buildup within
the tank during lling. This can cause water
tank damage.
B. Winterizing the Water System
Winter lay-up service procedures should include a
thorough draining of the water system. Disconnect
a
llaccessiblettings.Blowoutalllines.Besurethe
water tank, waste tank, pumps and lines are com-
pletely dry. Freezing water can cause severe
damage to all water system components.
NOTICE
It may be necessary to disconnect the hose
below the faucet to remove excess water in
the lines to prevent freeze damage.