Boat Maintenance

Seacock Maintenance

Seacocks are invaluable devices that control the movement of water into and out of your boat, both above and below the waterline. Keeping them working properly should be a part of every maintenance regimen. In fact, not doing so could imperil everyone onboard.
Seacocks are usually made either of bronze or Marelon, a high-strength, non-corrosive, non-conducting plastic composed of glass-reinforced Dupont Zytel. Regardless of what the seacock is made of, you should move the handles through their entire range at least once a month to test ease of movement. In addition, lubrication with waterproof grease, water pump grease, or a similar lubricant is important, at least once a year.
Greasing is relatively easy. If the boat is in the water, first make sure the valve is closed. Next, loosen the clamps and remove the hose. You'll most likely have some water in the fitting, so you might want to have a bucket or towels ready. Swab some grease on the ball with a Q-tip or similar applicator. Before reattaching the hose, examine both clamps-two clamps are a must on all hose-to-seacock connections that are below the waterline-and replace as necessary. Open and close the valve several times to work the grease around the ball.
Len Harris

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