2005 X-2 Ballast Upgrade Advice

Hello. I am going to replace my rear tanks with sacks and use the stock pumps. This part is easy.

I am going to add the Integrated Bow Sack (IBS) to the front. As of now I plan on adding a pump to dedicate to the IBS. For supply/drain I plan on using a "Y" fitting off of the center supply from the ballast distribution block. My only concern is the fluid dynamics at this "Y" fitting. Since the pumps will act as pseudo check valves when not running, will the flow in either direction be disturbed or corrupt? Here is a rough depiction of my plan at the ballast distribution block. I would appreciate any input. Ideally, I would make another hole in the distribution block, but it is metal and, to be quite frank, I do not feel comfortable messing with it.

(Message edited by boofer on August 14, 2007)

Why not just go on a different switch with a totally independent system.

Not quite sure what you mean Ron. The center sack will remain on it's own pump and the IBS will have it's own pump (and switch).

Basically the system will be: 2 rear sacks using the 2 stock pumps, 1 center sack on the stock pump, 1 IBS on an additional pump.

My question has to do with the supply for the center sack and the IBS. Will simply splitting the flow at the ballast distribution block work okay?

I do not want to add another through hull just for the IBS. I want to go through the existing ballast distribution block. Using the block allows me to "see" when the sacks are empty (flow of water out the side will stop).

(Message edited by boofer on August 15, 2007)

I'm guessing that splitting the inlet line, and installing check valves would work; then you would not siphen water from the ski locker sac, or visa-versa. I did a temporary install with my IBS, where I tapped into the overflow vent of the center sac, to fill the bow sac. It works, but, is not very efficient. I'm looking to emulate your project this winter. Good Luck.

Well, I am not using check valves anywhere in the system. When a pump is OFF, it functions like a check valve. So, let's say you ran the pump to fill the IBS. It would not draw from the center sack line because the center sack pump which is OFF prevents any flow in any direction relative to that pump.

Placing a check valve in this system would render it useless. You could fill or drain but not both.

Good luck with your install.