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Replacing Our Seacocks Before Heading Offshore – Why We Chose Gate Valves Over Ball Valves
June 27, 2025 · 13 min · 13K views · Rabat
What this video covers
Niko and Flo replace two failing through-hull valves on their boat, *Santana*, while the vessel remains in the water in Rabat, Morocco.▶ 0:45 To perform the swap without hauling out, the crew uses an external plug to seal the through-hulls while working from the interior.▶ 0:59 They choose brass gate valves over standard marine ball valves, citing lower costs and a design they believe is easier to clean and replace if debris causes a clog.▶ 3:46 The installation involves removing interior plumbing, including the head, to access the fittings.▶ 8:36 While ball valves are generally considered more durable and corrosion-resistant, the crew prioritizes the ability to service the gate valves manually and commits to a strict maintenance schedule to monitor for corrosion.▶ 9:58 The project successfully secures the through-hulls before the boat’s planned 480-nautical-mile passage to the Canary Islands.▶ 12:33 The experience highlights the trade-offs between standard marine hardware and alternative solutions when balancing budget, availability, and maintenance capability.
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