Specifications

J/46 OWNER GUIDE
34
Plumbing Systems
General
The plumbing systems in your J/46 consist of fresh water, manual and electrical pumps, and the heads
(toilets). This section will describe their locations and how they operate.
Fresh Water System
Water Tanks:
are made of rotationally molded polyethylene. Connected to them are the following hoses:
a) fill hose- is located on the tank top and connects to the deck water fill pipe; b) feed hose- located along
the tank bottom connects to the water system at the water selection Y valve; c) air vent hose is internal and
leads under the sheer line into the bow compartment.
Water Fills:
are located on deck. Be sure the water cap threads are cleansed of dirt for a better seal. The
water may develop a “taste” after a long period of time. Instead of flushing it out you can add a commercial
water preservation agent, such as Sudbury Aqua Fresh crystals, to greatly improve the taste.
Water Tank Selection Y-Valve:
is located on centerline below the cabin sole just forward of the galley
sink island. After the tank is changed, open a water faucet to allow air to escape. When the water trickles
out, close the faucet momentarily to allow the pump to build up pressure (check that it’s turned on!); then
open the faucet until a steady stream flows. It may be necessary to repeat the process several times to
bleed all the air from the system.
Water Pressure Pump:
is located outboard and under the forward portion of the port settee berth in the
main cabin. The pump operates off the DC electrical system and pressurizes the entire water system.
Should any problems arise, read its manual. If the system is not pressurizing, first check that the pump is
working correctly, i.e. it’s pumping water. Secondly, check that all hoses are securely connected to their
fittings. Thirdly, ensure all air pockets are eliminated as outlined above. If there is still a problem, consult
your dealer.
Water Heater
: is located under the “L” of the main cabin salon settee to port. Water is heated by either the
engine or shore power. If the water heater is on shore power, be sure a continuous supply of water is
available to it, otherwise the electrical element within it will burn out. Due to this potential risk, water heater
elements are excluded from warranty. Thus, be certain the water pressure pump is always on while
hooked up to shore power.
Thru-Hulls
All thru-hull fittings are of glass reinforced nylon or bronze. For safety reasons, we recommend that you
tape a soft wooden plug adjacent to all thru-hull fittings in the event of a hose or valve failure. These fittings
each have valve-handles. To reduce confusion, remember the
long end of the handle indicates the
direction of flow.
Pump Systems
Pumps are easy to maintain and just as easily forgotten...they always happen to seize up when you need
them most. Consequently, take care to keep their screens clean and rubber gaskets/bellows working
correctly. Before taking a long trip, order replacement parts for all pumps.
•
Sink Drains
empty directly overboard through a thru-hull fitting beneath each sink.
•
Shower Sump Pumps
are locally operated in each head and drain directly overboard.
•
Icebox Drain
valve is located under the bilge board and should be closed to keep in the cold air
except when draining.