Blackwater Woes....

[texasbound]

So I purchased a 1974 airstream sovereign 31'. Very straight trailer through and through, and I knew the blackwater tank was out of it due to a crack. The PPO (previous previous owner) had replumbed it so waste goes straight out the blackwater pumpout at the tail when I flush... so I can camp IF I have full hookups.

I have the tank... the crack is about 7 inches... and was patched once with epoxy or something... and appeared to crack again. Should I avoid trying to fix the crack and just replace the tank?

Anyone have the schematics on how I replace this tank? I'm ready to tank on this project... I just need a little guidance.

Thanks everyone!

[TBRich]

Someone will no doubt answer whether you should repair the old tank or put in a new one (though I'd guess you'd be further ahead to just replace it).

However, I wanted to point that a "direct exist" of waste, set up the way you describe, when using an RV toilet, may present problems in the long term. I don't know how far the waste has to travel between your toilet and the dump outlet, but if it's very far (particularly if it travels in a line somewhat parallel to the floor rather than down), you may run into line blockage problems over time. Liquids will drain out ... but solids may not make it all the way out and would likely build up over time eventually causing a blockage in the line...not a happy place. So the sooner you resolve the plumbing issue the better...

Good luck!

[crazeevw]

A tried and true quick fix. Find your crack in the tank, drill a small hole at each end of the crack. This will stop it from 'cracking' any further. Then, try some patch material, letting it set as long as it takes. Depending on the composition of the tank (ABS plastic, etc) will determine which patch material to use. I've been told numerous times that a fiberglass patch is a waste of time on most holding tanks. Epoxy maybe? But will epoxy react to the original tank material. Check with Keyair on the motorhome forum, he's been using a special mix.
Thanks, Derek

[texasbound]

Derek,

Thanks for the tip. I'm going to drill the holes... Not sure if I sure try and remove the old epoxy before doing a new patch. I don't want a "crappy" situation, but tanks are around $400... so if I can fix it, fantastic!

I'll check out what you suggested.

Thanks,
Leo