J/Boats J/145, Owner'S Manual

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J/145 OWNER GUIDE 43
Plumbing Systems
General
The plumbing systems in your J/145 consist of fresh water system, head systems, and manual and
electrical bilge pumps. This section will describe their locations and how they operate.
Fresh Water System
Water Tanks: are made of both rotationally molded polyethylene (main tank) and a flexible
neoprene/nitrile material (secondary). 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 threads of the deck fills are always free of dirt to ensure a
watertight 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 to greatly improve the taste.
Water Tank Selection Y-Valve: is located below the cabin sole on centerline next to 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, 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 under the aft 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 the manual included for the pump. If the system is not pressurizing, first check that
the pump is working correctly. Second, check that all hoses are securely connected to their fittings. Third,
ensure all air pockets are eliminated as outlined above. If there is still a problem, consult your dealer.
Water Heater : is located under the galley drawers. 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 & Seacocks
All thru-hull fittings & seacocks 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 and seacocks in the event of
a hose or valve failure. Each of the seacocks 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.
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Sink Drains empty directly overboard through a seacock fitting beneath each sink.
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Shower Sump Pumps are locally operated in each head and drain directly overboard.
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Icebox Drain valve is located under the bilge board and should be closed to keep in the cold air
except when draining.