Fresh water pipe question

[darrenloken]

I have a 1978 GB 42’ CL and one of my fresh water lines in the engine room developed a leak. The pipe is a black tubing looking similar to PEX or PVC.

Does anyone know what material these older boats were plumbed with by chance?

 

[NightCrawler]

Most are pex. You can use Sharkbites to stub in repairs. The crimp rings came in steel and nickle (I think). The steel ones rust and fail. Keep a bag of 1/2" 90 degree Sharkbites and some straight ones, we've fixed a half dozen leaks. Easy peasy.

 

[darrenloken]

Thank you Night Crawler!

Most are pex. You can use Sharkbites to stub in repairs. The crimp rings came in steel and nickle (I think). The steel ones rust and fail. Keep a bag of 1/2" 90 degree Sharkbites and some straight ones, we've fixed a half dozen leaks. Easy peasy.

Thank you very much!

 

[Comodave]

I am not sure but I don’t think PEX was around in 1978. I have an 87 and it has polybutylene, or something like that. The Sharkbite may still work but I believe there are different versions of the Sharkbite fittings. Measure it closely and go to a plumbing store and ask them. Some are metric size also.

 

[darrenloken]

Thank you

Thank you for your reply I appreciate it!

 

[SteveK]

pretty sure it is 1/2 ID, I used a barbed male/male and hose clamps the last repair.

 

[Cigatoo]

Our 1984 GB36 has gray polybutylene throughout. Are you sure that yours is black and not gray? Maybe it’s dirty? Polybutylene can be connected to pex with Sharkbite fittings. See below

https://www.trawlerforum.com/forums/s32/fresh-water-plumbing-grand-banks-24702.html

https://www.sharkbite.com/products/polybutylene-transition-coupling