> The recent thread on Lectra-Sans mentions Y-Valves. > The most commonly available is the Forespar product > with the miraculous "breaking handle" feature (even > the re-design seems to be junk). There are others, but > which one is best, especially for those of us who > don't use them frequently? Has Practical Sailor ever > tested these? IMO, Whale is the best. However, lack of use can cause any y-valve to seize up...so whether you need to use it or not, make a habit of "exercising" it at least once a month. And lubricate it once a year. -- Peggie ---------- Peggie Hall Specializing in marine sanitation since 1987 Author "Get Rid of Boat Odors - A Guide To Marine Sanitation Systems and Other Sources of Aggravation and Odor" http://www.seaworthy.com/store/customer/product.php?productid=40&cat=6&page=1

Peggie As you suggest, my experience with the Whale Y-valve has been excellent, 4 of them on two different boats for 12 years or so. Any idea as to why they choose to have the smooth hose fittings instead hose barbs (though I've never had one leak)? How do you suggest the Whale Y-valve be lubricated? Thanks. Dan Stone M/V Slow Dance Albin 43 St. Petersburg, FL IMO, Whale is the best. However, lack of use can cause any y-valve to seize up...so whether you need to use it or not, make a habit of "exercising" it at least once a month. And lubricate it once a year. -- Peggie ---------- Peggie Hall Specializing in marine sanitation since 1987

> As you suggest, my experience with the Whale Y-valve has been excellent, > 4 of them on two different boats for 12 years or so. Any idea as to why > they choose to have the smooth hose fittings instead hose barbs (though > I've never had one leak)? It's easier to get a hose onto a fitting that isn't barbed...and as you've experienced, a hose properly double clamped onto an UNbarbed tailpiece is no more likely to leak or slide off than one on a barbed fitting. > How do you suggest the Whale Y-valve be lubricated? Remove the screws that hold the body together open it, and squirt some grease into it. About once ever 2-3 years should be enough to keep it working smoothly -- Peggie ---------- Peggie Hall Specializing in marine sanitation since 1987 Author "Get Rid of Boat Odors - A Guide To Marine Sanitation Systems and Other Sources of Aggravation and Odor" http://www.seaworthy.com/store/customer/product.php?productid=40&cat=6&page=1