[C320-list] Head options and other s#$!

[David Nolte via C320-list]

Hi,

We are looking to replace or do away with our 30 year old holding tank. Phew.

The guys at a local marina are all recommending going with a porta potty or a composting toilet. Does anyone have experience with either?

If so, which models have you used that fit into our space?

Thanks!

David Nolte
Beach House 0004

[ARTUR PIOTROWSKI via C320-list]

Hello, we have Air Head Classic composting toilet on our C320 #330. It was installed by the previous owner and we're happy with it. I would not recommend self composting toilet if you're frequently cruise with more than 2-3 ppl onboard.I hope it helps.

[Dave Hupe via C320-list]

Hi Dave-
A previous owner had replaced my tank with a larger one. I suspect there had been a previous leak that migrated down into the shallow bilge structural grid. Replacing all my hoses (waste, supply and vent) and joker valve on my old system (hull #32) didn't resolve my odor issues. As recommended by many other owners I finally replaced the original undersized vent with an inexpensive open 3/4" fitting ($6 now Seachoice model 18061 https://www.boats.net/product/accessories/EQ9F-SEACHOICE-18061 ) and believe I have seen an improvement. 
Dave Hupe 
1994 C320 #32
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer

On Mon, Aug 11, 2025 at 10:27 PM, David Nolte via C320-list<c320...@lists.catalina320.com> wwroteand  Hi,

[Mark Cole via C320-list]

Hi, David;

One of the first projects I did on Fiddler’s Green was to remove the holding tank, marine toilet and all associated hoses and replace it with a composting toilet. I don’t think I’ve been on a recreational boat, including the few my wife and I have owned, that I didn’t smell the toilet odors and correcting that was a high priority when we bought the C320.

I installed a Nature’s Head unit in 2017 and haven’t regretted it. We looked at both the Air Head and Nature’s Head at the Seattle boat show and went with the Nature’s Head only because of a slightly better price. They are both similar quality and function. The ugliest part of the replacement project is removing the old holding tank. Once that is done, the install is pretty simple. You do need to run an exhaust hose to the exterior for the small DC fan that constantly pulls air through the solids compartment. I ran mine out the transom and tied into an existing vent.

Use is basically the same as with a marine toilet, except that you need to empty the liquids tank pretty frequently. Carrying the tank up to the shoreside facility, you do get questions and knowing comments from other users. I’ve even talked with a guy who lives aboard with his wife and they like the unit. Bottom line, NO MORE ODORS, and I used the space freed up by the holding tank for a new battery bank and the thru-hull for an anchor washdown.

Mark
Fiddler’s Green #8
Smooth seas never made a good sailor