Scupper Valve Advice

[daniel123]

I've had the ball-type scupper valves on my Osprey 200 for several seasons and while they work, I find them hard to clear of leaves when in storage and the clacking sound they make when opening and closing while at anchor can be annoying. I mostly trailer the boat, but there are times on vacation when it is left at the dock for a week or more at at time, so I need something reliable and don't mind paying a bit more than the $10 ones at WM. I'm curious about what other Aquasport owners are using and recommend for a replacement. 

[mshugg]

I may be in the minority here, but I actually like the rubber flapper type scupper that was used on Ospreys since the 70s.  They’re simple and reliable.  The rubber flapper wears out after 3 years or so,but it’s cheap and easy to replace.

[boatnamesue]

To my knowledge there are 2 scupper valve choices...the ball or the flap.  If it's any consolation, modern hulls off the production line that are self bailing have the flaps installed, not the ball valves.   

[daniel123]

Thanks for the input. I see after-market flap-syles priced from $10 to over $25 and they all look similar. What features are important? Since I trailer, I'd want ones that don't allow water to force the flaps backward and flood the deck during 'aggressive' launches, which I've heard can be an issue with some types.

[boatnamesue]

All flapper valves work on the same principle, though some are better made than others.  Check reviews online for each manufacturer.  The diameter of the flap is larger than the diameter scupper, so there should not be backflow.

[daniel123]

Thanks, Jason.

Dan

[wingtime]

TH Marine ball scuppers are the best solution. They are two piece design so you can easily clean them. They have a silicone seal too so they seal up better than anything. The flapper type leak since there is very little pressure to close them.

[daniel123]

WT: That's what I have on the boat now and find them hard to keep clean, especially when the boat is in storage and debris collects around the ball inside the compartment. Also the clacking sound they make as the plastic ball bounces back and forth with the waves is annoying -- and I fear it may even alert fish when I am at anchor of drifting. That said, my worry about flaps is that leakage potential. 

[Capt. Bob]

The biggest enemy of the flapper valve is UV rays. It renders the rubber brittle and leads to dry rot. They work as advertised when new so your goal is to keep the flap in good condition. Personally I use the 3M 303 product on the flappers. Doesn't last forever but the important time you need the protection is when the boat's on the trailer. A spritz after you hose down your hull and you're good.

Good luck.

[daniel123]

Good idea. I use 303 for all kinds of things, from revitalizing windshield wiper blades to bringing the color back on plastic control buttons -- as well as everything else that most people use Armor-All on. Stuff is incredible. Thanks for the tip. I may purchase extra flaps when I place my order so I have backups as well.