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Old 11-22-2016, 09:08 AM
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ndutton ndutton is offline
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Welcome Merino

Your question is a good one, waterlift volume is one of three important factors regarding Catalina 30 exhaust systems, the other two being the hot section design and the check valve at the highest point in the downstream exhaust hose found in the port sail bin in the cockpit. Since your question pertained to the waterlift we'll stay on topic.

The Catalina fiberglass waterlift is the highest volume, lowest profile model available. It has a liability though. Unless the construction has changed over the years the big flat sides tend to flex in use due to the rhythmic pressure developed when pushing out water batches. This flexing leads to cracks and leaks sooner or later, likely the reason they offer a replacement.

There are other waterlifts available in stock sizes that have been used successfully by Catalina 30 owners on this forum. In order of their quality starting with the lowest they are:
  • Vetus LP40 http://www.vetus.com/exhaust-systems...let-40-mm.html
    The Vetus LP40 will get the job done but it's blow molded construction is very light, its material extremely intolerant of elevated temperatures. Splitting at the center seam is the usual failure. It won't last 60 seconds without cooling water as in forgetting to open the raw water valve, blocked raw water intake or impeller failure.
  • Centek Vernalift 1500270 https://www.centekindustries.com/pro...-top-in-6-x-9/
    This is the waterlift I have. It is of filament wound fiberglass construction, very robust and corrosion free. In my sailing area burying the rail is a normal occurrence because of our excellent afternoon sailing conditions and I have had zero issues for the 12 years I've owned my Catalina 30.
  • Moyer Marine Stainless Waterlift http://www.moyermarine.com/cgi-bin/s...=EXHT_01.0_377
    You will not find a higher quality waterlift but of course quality comes at a price. It's dimensions are very close to the Centek I have and I cannot recall a single post on this forum describing any problems with it.
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Neil
1977 Catalina 30
San Pedro, California
prior boats 1987 Westsail 32, 1970 Catalina 22
Had my hands in a few others
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