calling all abyc standards experts

[gary randall]

Now that you guys have shown me the wisdom of adhering to ABYC standards with your insights on exhaust system materials, I was wondering if there is a standard for blower systems.
What kind of duct material would be best to use to replace the blower duct?
The current duct – what is left of it – is plastic.
Should I use off-the-shelf dryer duct?
Is aluminum OK? And, if so, why would it not be prone to sparking in some way, defeating the purpose?
Is there a standard?
And, finally, is the lowest part of the bilge the best place for the hose to terminate?
If it matters, the boat is a Tartan 27.
Gary Randall

[Laker]

Not so low that the blower duct end might lay in bilge water.

Note - I rely as heavily on my nose as I do the bilge blower. I always flip open the engine compartment and stick my head in prior to turning on the blower. Keeps me honest. Take nothing for granted.

[ndutton]

Not ABYC but here's what the Coasties have to say about it:

http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/get-cfr.cgi?TITLE=33&PART=183&SECTION=610&YEAR=1998&TYPE=PDF

[hanleyclifford]

I tried using aluminum ducting once but the salt environment ate it up real fast.

[CalebD]

Gary,

Congrats on owning a T27 as well. Mine is from 1967 (#328) as is the A4 and our fan duct is plastic and circular and has lasted a long time. I'd replace it with a similar product today if needed. It is similar to some of the dryer vent hoses but in plastic, not metal. Our air exhaust hose ends near the tranny laying on the hull before the bilges.

I'm sure the ABYC codes have some standard for the duct/hose for the engine compartment fan but the fan itself is the most important. If it is a spark proof blower/fan and marine grade it should be ABYC compliant.

Have you found our T27Owners group over at yahoo? http://groups.yahoo.com/group/T27Owners/

Which hull # and year is your Tartan 27'?