can I build a shower cheaper than buying one?

[target54]

I would love to get a shower - but being cheap I thought I could probably build one myself. I figure the pump is probably the most expensive component and if I can get one cheap off e-bay (or where ever) I could get a shower for ~$50 or so (or at least under $100).

What am I missing? What don't I know or understand about the showers that make them seem expensive? It seems to me that a pump and some inexpensive tubing and an adjustable t-valve would just about do it.

Does the pump have 2 chambers to pump both cold and hot water? Is there a catch to taking the water from the block? Where is that BTW? I have a 93' SN.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Dave

[Daryl]

you are right, not that hard, get hot from drain plug on bottom right of engine (standing at ski pylon - looking towards rear) and cold from t-eeing into the output from the raw water pump. both connections to a t-valve - then to a pump. - use a pump that can run dry (rv type pump - flojet makes them) and has a pressure switch on it. that way it will precharge the line and start as soon as you open the fixture (standard garden hose gun)

with this setup it is a pain to always adjust the temperature (because the mix valve would likely be under the engine cover)

and make sure you mount the pump where it won't get wet. (the cam's and brushes don't like water much)

of course don't take my word for it - do your research and make your own decisions - if you don't understand - buy the kit http://www.heatercraft.com

[target54]

Glad to hear it..... I guess the secret to my success will be landing an inexpensive Surflo-pump.

I figured I might (depending on cost, etc..) run two small lines right up to the head and adjust the temp right at the outlet. The thought being that I need to temperature to be easily adjustable if I am going to use it all the time.

[Daryl]

yup, it just becomes a mounting issue. on my 1990 SN the T is by the water seperator and the pump is mounted by the tranny cooler (under the back floor piece) - works great. just need to be carefull if kids get hold of the nozzel if the temp is a bit hot.

good luck

[target54]

OK, I got a Shurflo pump off ebay. Time for more details...I haven't seen any of these showers so I could use a little help.

Is this right??. I take the hot water from the block and push it thru the pump. Then take the cold water from the hose between the impeller and the waterpump and run both those to a mixing valve and out to my shower head?? Or do I mix the hot and cold before putting it thru the pump??

Thanks,
Dave

[millsjq]

I may be able to assist you. I just purchesed a 2004 Ski Nautique that came equiped with a factory shower. Since I ski in salt water I pulled it out before I used the boat. If you are interested in purchasing the entire system call me at 301-481-7159

[Daryl]

target54 - my shower mixes the hot and cold before the pump. - the cold water comes from the hose that runs from the raw water pump to the t-stat housing. - hot from drain plug (just like my post says above)

some people suggest a check valve on the hot water line but my system does not have one and seems to work ok.

[Laptom]

As far as I know, you tee of the hot water at the bottom drain plug and the cold water after the raw water pump. Take both lines to the mixer (thermostat) and run the output of the mixer to a pump (2,7 gallons/minute). Output of the pump to the shower head. Voila!

[lbz99smp]

Hey guys, just looking at putting in a shower.

Should the cold water come off after the water pump or before.?

Do you guys only use the with the motor running? if the motor isnt running, is the water still there to use? im guessing it may run out after a min or so.?

Thanks

[EchoLodge]

Pics of my install using the kit.

http://www.planetnautique.com/index....al&user_id=399

http://www.planetnautique.com/index....=DESC&start=12

[scottrob]

Keep in mind, however, that there are patents on this stuff for ski boats.

John McMath has it for hot water showers on ski boats:

http://patft1.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-...ath+AND+shower

and then joint for the hot water shutoff

http://patft1.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-...ath+AND+shower

[EchoLodge]

I guess if you built your own you could not invite Mr McMath to be your third!

[mgswed]

I am a little confused. Id like to do this too but does the pump stay on all the time? Do you have to turn it on when you want to use it? Is it an automatic thing like if you open the valve on the shower head does it automatically turn on? -MG

[Hydrofoilmaniac]

This might help you.... http://www.teamhydrofoil.com/flight_log/mar_apr2006.htm

[Hydrofoilmaniac]

Oops, for some reason the link didn't go thru. Go to [url]http://www.teamhydrofoil.com/flight_log/mar_apr2006.htm