NHarp1 Z1 Ballast Install

[NHarp1]

This thread will explain how I decided to do my Z1 ballast install. There are definately many ways of doing a ballast install depending how much money you are willing to spend. After reviewing many installs, I decided to use the Jabsco Pump Puppies (18220-1123) for the rear locker sacks (W708) and (W704) sack for the bow open floor area. I do not have enough room under my bow seat area so I decided to go with the floor sack and manual fill with the Tsanmai 1200 pump (W709). I guess I decided to use the Pump Puppies because I wanted to avoid any water priming issues.


I decided to put my reverse scoop (1 1/4") thru hull about 27 inches from the speedo. For 1 1/4" scoop thru hull, use a 1 5/8' hole saw. Some people have decided to use a mushroom thru hull. I guess it is your call.

I used 1 1/4 shut off valve, PVC T manifold, 1 inch hose, check valves, T hose fittings and 1" hose barbs.

I mounted the pumps to wood so I can slide the pumps behind the seat when finished or pull back to gain access to the impeller.

[NHarp1]

I had to remove 2 switches not in use and replace with the switches supplied by the Pump Puppies. The switches came with an outer cover plate I removed what I did not need.

I tied into the breaker box "buss bar" for my hot wire that went to a 20 amp in-line fuse that went to the new switches.

[NHarp1]

In all, the install went well if you plan ahead and get all your parts together before you start. Always dill your holes with plywood to make sure you have the correct hole saw. When ready, I used the 3M Marine adhesive that worked perfect for the thru hulls.

I did use check valves to avoid water from draining out of the bags, back out the water intake thru hull. The other check valves were for the vent and to stop air from sucking from the vent when the pumps are filling the bags. Some people may argue these check valves were not necessary and I could have saved some money since each check valve cost $10 dollars.

When I wired my switches, I basically pulled 2 of the inoperative switches out and re-connected under the dash because the wires are all daisy chained together and I wanted to keep everything in original order. As you can see by my picture, I had switches that were prewired from the MFG for add on lights, etc items..

The bow floor bag will be manually filled with the Tsanmai pump as it sits in the floor walk space. (This will give the kids something to do.)

I hope this helps someone who may be considering do it yourself install.

[NHarp1]

I got the sacks from my local Tige/Fly High dealer. Pumps and fittings were all from good old Andrew who was always there for me when I needed some help. Thanks Andrew!

[G-MONEY]

Very nice....!!!!!!!

[NHarp1]

Thanks to all those that gave me advice on my install:
SPBFAN

EK Ballast Install
http://www.tigeowners.com/forum/show...Ballast+switch

G Money Install
http://www.tigeowners.com/forum/show...p+puppy&page=5

Coach Ballast Install
http://tige-ballast-install.blogspot.com/

[G-MONEY]

Keep an eye out for the fittings on the vent hose when the bag fills it causes that vent hose to really bend and puts allot of pressure on the hose and the fittings.

[xpjim1]

Nice job Nharp1. You have joined the ranks of the ballast boys

[dogbert]

Very nice!

[evil0ne]

Any chance you are Nick Harp that went to IU?

[NHarp1]

No, I am an Iowa boy, 20 years retired active duty Air Force.

[Jason B]

Thanks for taking the time to do that. This task was on my list to be considered--really the amount of work is all that is stopping me. You made it look easy

[highrock]

Really nice job there. I would take that anyday over the stock ballast that comes with the boat in 08, 09 is different with the infloor rear tanks. What made you not go with a sac under the front seat? In my experience with the Z1 I had I would always fill that bag under the seats up and then add another 600 lbs fat sac in the walkway all the way to the front.

You should have a sick wake though about 21-23 65-75 feet!

[eks]

Great install Job. I think you did it perfectly. Thanks for the pictures.

[NHarp1]

I would have loved to get a bag under the bow seats. Unfortunately, the 2008 Z1 storage area under the bow seat is small and I would have had to go with an expensive custom sack. Then, I would have only had about 250 lbs of water.

I will be using a 400 lb bag (manual fill with the Tsanmai 1200 pump) on the bow floor walk area. This gives the kids something to do. So, I am not 100% automated. This is the best I can do. I think I will be happy.