Repair of Cockpit Drains aka Scuppers on a Tanzer 22

The cockpit drains in a Tanzer 22 are quite troublesome. After double wrapping the current drain pipes with fiberglass mat and epoxy resin (West System), both pipes still leaked.  Even if this method works, it is a difficult job to complete. 

I gave up on the wrapping technique to try lining the drain pipes. Luckily standard PVC pipe fit. 7/8 O.D.( ¾ I.D.) is a common hardware store item. The 7/8 outer diameter fits snugly into the pipes. I had to open up one of the holes on the cockpit deck with a hole saw to fit the PVC pipe. 

PVC at cockpit deck. snug fit

extra Length for handling during fitting

Here’s the process. Hopefully, the photos will fill in the blanks.

Starting with a 24 inch pipe, push the PVC pipe up the drain to check the fit.

24 inches will leave a few inches for handling. After you have fit it, mark it, and cut it with a pipe cutter.

After you are sure that it is right, overload the ends of the PVC pipe with a good marine grade adhesive caulk like 3M’s slow cure.  Let it cure per the instructions. 

With this method, the drains are a smaller diameter, but, it has worked well for two years. The bilge is dry and rainwater drains from the cockpit.

from the top side

topside

 Bottom view: trim excess caulk after curing

 To test for leaks on the hard, insert rubber stoppers in both drains. Be sure that the caulk is well cured.  Fill the cockpit with a few inches of water. After a few hours, check the bilge. If you see water, try again.

To keep the drains clean, push a dowel or a refrigerator brush through the pipe. A refrigerator brush looks like a 36 inch long bottle brush and can be purchased at most hardware stores in the cleaning supply section.

Good luck and take your time to get a tight seal.