2005 206 Ballast tank question

[Chad1]

I empty my ballast tank and then it fills itself back up. Any idea what the problem is or am I doing something wrong??

[homer12]

Did you just get this boat or is this a new problem? I'm thinking you have the same issue I have found and many others regarding the ballast helm control valves and aerator pumps letting water gradually seep past them.

[Quinner]

If you are only closing the helm valve and water is still entering that would tell me there is a problem with the helm valve. Close the valve in the bilge and you will not get any water in.

[Chad1]

I bought it back in November and just took it out for the first time. Buxton did a lake test and full service on it and everything checked out except they had to replace the volt gauge and ballast sending unit. In my owners manual it has instructions for filling and emptying a 210,216, and 226 but not a 206. I assume it's the same for a 206? Maybe I'm doing something wrong with the open and close valve??

[Quinner]

Go back and read the other thread you posted about this on, it explains everything you need to know about a factory 206 ballast tank setup.
The valve in the bilge should have an extended handle with blue rubber grip at the end, there should also be a sticker indicating Open / Closed. That is a ball or gate valve so when closed nothing will enter past it. Not sure if the helm valve regulates air or is similar to a ball or gate valve. My helm valve has not controlled water flow 100% since new. I close the valve in the bilge when I do not want water to enter the tank.

[Chad1]

Thanks Quinner! Will it be ok to drain it completely while it's on the trailer then turn off the bilge valve?

[DLafont]

Same as for Quinner on mine. Need to close bilge valve to avoid filling ballast.

[Quinner]

Yes, drain away!! Believe the only way to drain is with the pump, press and hold for a sec or 2 the lower left ballast pump button (belly ballast iirc), light blinks for drain, solid for fill.