Installing Bob’s snorkel valve - considerations?

[Timothy L]

I would very much appreciate hearing thoughts and observations about mounting Bob Martin’s snorkel valve - as in do’s and don’ts, placement, access, maintenance, pre-mission checks etc. I know it’s a “simple” thing - but I just want to avoid any head-thumping “dah” moments. Thank you.
Tim

[He Who Shall Not Be Named]

I would very much appreciate hearing thoughts and observations about mounting Bob Martin’s snorkel valve - as in do’s and don’ts, placement, access, maintenance, pre-mission checks etc. I know it’s a “simple” thing - but I just want to avoid any head-thumping “dah” moments. Thank you.
Tim

A picture of Bob's snorkel would be useful if you want any useful comments, Tim.

David

[Timothy L]

For example, I am curious if users have found that the outlet gets clogged or perhaps the ball gets “gummy” from pond scum etc? Does it require cleaning every mission? Thank you.

[He Who Shall Not Be Named]

For example, I am curious if users have found that the outlet gets clogged or perhaps the ball gets “gummy” from pond scum etc? Does it require cleaning every mission? Thank you.

Regardless of snorkel head-valve type, its accepted pre-mission procedure to cycle the ballast sub-system (vent-submerge-blow-surface) at the waters edge before heading to deep water. A fouled head-valve will be identified there, before you have a chance of loosing your frig'n boat!

You people!

[Subculture]

That looks like a print of the 3d file that Hermor gives away. It’s basically a copy of the R&R snorkel, it uses a small polypropylene ball to seal off the snorkel. PP is about 10% less dense than fresh water, so it floats and seals the snorkel when submerged, but the ball also needs to have sufficient mass to break away when the boat surfaces. Mount it has high in the boat as packaging permits.

Shouldn’t need much in the way of maintenance unless you operate in a very dirty water. The snorkel valve should not be a perfect seal, just enough to limit flow when closed so that the water pumps flow can exceed any leak enabling the operator to blow the tank underwater if desired.

---

[Timothy L]

Got it - EVERYTHING must be tested, EVERY mission. Take nothing for granted.
I know, the beatings will continue LOL.

[He Who Shall Not Be Named]

Got it - EVERYTHING must be tested, EVERY mission. Take nothing for granted.
I know, the beatings will continue LOL.

Bingo. The choke-collar comes off soon, pal.