[Codfish]

I have been watching the latest debate on the fish box drains with much curiosity. I have lots to say about the issue of whether or not our warranty is voided by drilling holes in the hull, but I will save that for another day.

Not withstanding the disclaimers about doing modifications, and with full knowledge that I may have to argue my case later with the folks at Triumph, I have modified my fish boxes (forward two only) by installing brass garboard type drains. My reasons are like all the rest who have done this, they hold water and the factory drains are inadequate, and in my opinion, impractical.

I positioned them based on the best spot for inside the box. I drilled my 1" hole from the inside, putting the drain plug flange in the center of the rear depression and centered next to the factory drain. I too found that there was not a full "kiss off" at this point. I had a 1/8th " foam layer in more than half the hole. I pre treated this foam with some Rule prior to the flange install and I used plenty of Rule to be sure there was no place for water to intrude into the hull. I simply Ruled the old drains shut, so they could be reopened if needed later on.

Here is where I think I have improved on the other installs done. I wanted to be able to leave the drains open, allowing for a free exchange of sea water into and out of the box to wash out blood and scales during the fishing day. My concern was whether or not the water would be sucked out by negative pressure while moving forward on plane. The hole location is below the water line most of the time. I solved this problem by installing some white plastic through hull scoop strainer covers from West Marine, item #906062, $5.99 each, over the drain holes. I mounted the solid side towards the bow, which creates a negative pressure at the drain when moving forward at planing speeds. I was pleased to see that the negative pressure was great enough to literally pull the water out in a matter of a few seconds after getting on plane. I am guessing there is about 5-8 gallons of water in the box at rest. Just enough to keep the fish washed and fresh during the day. This mod will save on ice and clean up. (Remember we have cold water out here on the left coast.)

To mount the covers in the proper position, I had to shave off most of the delta shaped hull protrusions that are directly in front of the new drain holes. I did this with my dremel tool using a plastic shaper bit. I used 1/2" SS screws (4) and Rule to mount the covers. I put the actual drain hole under the solid half of the cover to be sure the negative pressure was maximized under the drain.

I hope I have one photo attached. Codfish