Foretravel Motorhome Forums => Foretravel Discussions => Topic started by: AC7880 on May 25, 2023, 12:09:04 pm
Title: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on May 25, 2023, 12:09:04 pm
I am starting research into replacing the entire vacuflush system in basement and the Dometic/Sealand Magnum Opus model 3048 toilet with a macerator toilet.
If I do the changeover it will either be this fall, or next year or two. Our vacuflush basement mounted pump system and toilet are both working fine right now, so no hurry. Quite a bit of noise with the vaccuflush, both from the toilet and from the pump in the basement. Macerator would be quieter, and replace a aging system before it eventually has some type of failure.
Initial research shows a Dometic Masterflush 8700 series macerator toilet has nearly the same footprint (which is what we want), requires 20 amp service and 12 gauge 12 volt wire. Our current toilet has 12 gauge wiring to it, even though the vaccuflush toilet only requires 14 gauge and 7-8 amp fusing.
So the wiring is sufficent, but I need to check the fusing or breaker that serves the 12 gauge wiring and toilet.
We have a hamper behind the toilet with a false floor, so pretty good access to wiring and piping. Under the bath sink in the counter, there is room for changing out vacuflush monitor to either a status panel for a macerator toilet with flush handle, or a remote flush controller for a macerator toilet without flush handle.
The remaining thing to determine inside the bathroom is the size of the discharge piping and water input piping size, to see if it will work as is or must be modified. Also location of discharge and input pipes to macerator toilet (should be close).
In a bit I will discuss the basement vaccuflush pump system and piping that will have to be changed or modified.
Current system in diagram.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: Michelle on May 25, 2023, 12:23:12 pm
I can see the following additional advantages to the swap out:
No more duckbills to replace every 3 years (I would guess the macerator system doesn't use them)
RV service folks are MUCH more familiar with macerator toilets (at least one toilet in every bath and a half DP is a macerator model) than VacuFlush systems.
ETA the one downside is you'll use more water/fill the black tank faster with a macerator toilet. Just something to consider if you boondock or frequently do W/E-only sites.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on May 25, 2023, 12:31:03 pm
I can see the following additional advantages to the swap out:
No more duckbills to replace every 3 years (I would guess the macerator system doesn't use them)
RV service folks are MUCH more familiar with macerator toilets (at least one toilet in every bath and a half DP is a macerator model) than VacuFlush systems.
ETA the one downside is you'll use more water/fill the black tank faster with a macerator toilet. Just something to consider if you boondock or frequently do W/E-only sites.
I've been rebuilding the vacuflush generator every 2 years (and sometimes sooner) when in a stable location, to prevent issues when traveling. I replace duckbills and bellows as well. With 2 of us full timing, there is a lot of usage.
Dometic Masterflush 8700 series macerator toilet has a water reducing usage feature that allow the toilet not refilling water after flushing (mainly for boaters in heavy waves). It will still use more water than vacuflush, but less than normal mode.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on May 25, 2023, 12:39:29 pm
Pics of inside layout. The fan control will have to move up, to make room for macerator status display or flush contoller. Easy access for wiring.
The toilet and hamper are on outside wall, drivers side.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: juicesqueezer on May 25, 2023, 01:10:09 pm
Dan, where are your grey and black tanks located in your coach? Just wondering why FOT set up this type in your coach!
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on May 25, 2023, 01:20:43 pm
Dan, where are your grey and black tanks located in your coach? Just wondering why FOT set up this type in your coach!
Not a direct drop. Hard to visualize inside the coach, but seems black tank is further back than toilet. Plumbing runs are mostly hidden.
Black and grey are behind rearmost basement door, by the water manifold when viewed from passenger side, and behind drivers side rear dump valves. 40' tag axle coach.
Toilet discharges to rear of toilet, not downward.
I'll post some pics of basement plumbing when I can get file types to work.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on May 25, 2023, 01:25:00 pm
In the pic of basement vacuflush generator, the black pipe from the vacuflush is the one that dumps into the black tank.
The white flexible one is the one feeding from the toilet. Above the black and grey tanks the white flexible hose connects to black rigid piping.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on May 25, 2023, 01:29:14 pm
In the pic of basement vacuflush generator, the black pipe from the vacuflush is the one that dumps into the black tank.
The white flexible one is the one feeding from the toilet. Above the black and grey tanks the white flexible hose connects to black rigid piping.
There is little space and little access above the sewage tanks (behind the water manifold cover) to merge the two black rigid pipes (feed and discharge).
Seems easiest to retain the white flexible hose and modify the black dump pipe above the vacum generator to make a turn and then attach flexible hose to it. I would hire a plumber to make that change.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: Michelle on May 25, 2023, 04:06:04 pm
Dan, where are your grey and black tanks located in your coach? Just wondering why FOT set up this type in your coach!
6106 is a custom floorplan. It's a little AGDS, a little PBDS, and a little WTFS... The couple who designed it did an amazing job IMHO.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on June 01, 2023, 03:56:01 pm
More investigation on possibly installing Macerator 8700 series Masterflush toilet and removing vacu flush toilet and the vacum generator in the basement.
Both toilets use a 1/2" npt fresh water feed from the rear. Both use a 1.5" discharge to the rear. Current vacuflush has 12 gauge wiring which the masterflush requires. And in the basment, that 12 gauge feed already has 20 amp breaker. So that makes things simpler all around.
I'm suprised Foretravel used a 20 amp and a 12 gauge wire as the vacuflush requires only 8 amps, but it sure makes the feasibility easier.
Next thing to figure out is the black tank full monitoring that shuts down the vacuflush when tank is full. The macerator toilet also has recommended (but optional) full tank monitoring/auto shutdown.
What are the odds the full tank system on the Masterflush will be compatible with existing wiring/sensor? (probably low).
Tecma macerator toilets need 8 to 10 gauge wiring (depending on length of wiring run) and 40 amp at 12 volt. That is why I am not looking at Tecma.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on June 01, 2023, 04:05:44 pm
Drawback as Michelle pointed out is water useage.
Vacuflush uses .27 gallon in normal mode, and .08 in low mode.
Masterflush use .85 gal normal, .45 gallon low mode.
We rarely dry camp these days, but do use some campgrounds with no sewer drop on site, but with a dump station.
If wanting spare Masterflush parts on hand in case of issues: macerator motor $413 to $489 water valve $41 to $106 control module $apprx $706
Expensive to have variety of spares on board.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on June 06, 2023, 10:30:30 pm
If I do this in stages, and do the macerator toilet inside the bathroom first, I wonder if the vacum generator in the basement would work in combination with the macerator toilet with no issues?
Then I could schedule a plumber for the piping change in the basement a week or two later. I can easily remove the vacumn generator (pump) myself, but need a pro for the piping modification.
We are full timers and can only have the toilet system down during daylight hours only and only one day at a time.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: Peter on July 04, 2023, 01:32:23 am
Updates?
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: erniee on July 04, 2023, 08:28:01 am
Too bad these Coach manufacturers have to make flushing a commode complicated. Our Prevost had the Headhunter system. Uses a ton of water and extra plumbing to route everything from toilet to black tank. If black tank was a direct drop, I would have put in a Dometic 320 - like we did in the Foretravel- which is a direct drop to the black. All manual- no electricity required.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on July 04, 2023, 06:51:22 pm
Project on hold other than investigating how to potentially do it. Other items (relocating our home base) have taken priority. Our homebase now is a Escapees co-op in Sutherlin Oregon, new homebase will be a Escapees co-op in Benson AZ.
Also changing hydraulic engine cooling fans from electronic control to wax control is being considered, and higher priority if I proceed on it.
I have a complete rebuild kit on hand I bought last year for the basement vacumn system, so I can rebuild in the interim if necessary. I may do that in the next month or two to buy more time for potential conversion t macerator toilet.
My son in law in OK is a licensed plumber. I will have him take a look at plumbing routing in the basement sometime this fall. Not asking him to do the work, just give advice.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on July 04, 2023, 06:52:19 pm
If black tank was a direct drop, I would have put in a Dometic 320 - like we did in the Foretravel- which is a direct drop to the black. All manual- no electricity required.
I would do the same if direct drop.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: Rudy on July 04, 2023, 07:19:58 pm
Dan, I changed the 01 U320 to the wax control and it worked fine. My engine temp was usually 186 F with a high of 195 powering up rolling hills and then back down to 186.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: juicesqueezer on July 06, 2023, 07:59:58 am
Dan, I would not be too concerned with water issues with the macerator system. We have installed a bidet in our coach and water usage is pretty high with this one, since it cleans itself before use and after. Not an issue for us, remember, water is your friend when it comes to black tanks and issues. Right now, I don't dump any more than before and we sometimes boondock or in a park with only W/E, plus we use the washer/dryer at least 3 times a week. Having done plumbing work over the years, not licensed, but not afraid to take on just about anything with regards to plumbing, I went in and completely changed out my wet bay configuration on how FOT did theirs. Works so much better!
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: Peter on July 06, 2023, 10:08:33 pm
Juicesqueezer Do you have pics of your wet bay alterations?
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: juicesqueezer on July 08, 2023, 07:23:51 am
Juicesqueezer Do you have pics of your wet bay alterations?
I thought I had posted them once, but now have deleted those pics and I'm not tearing into the cover again to expose the inside. Needless to say, I got tired of repairing the cables to the black and grey tanks and the weird setup with the 90's coming from those tanks, so went in and cut them all out and did a direct shot from black and grey out to the front of the bay. I now have two gate valves out front and when I want to dump them both, I have a Y connector to allow this. Not a difficult work around, but not for the faint of heart when it comes to doing the first cut! Hope this helps!
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on December 27, 2024, 09:58:21 pm
I am beginning to once again research and plan for a macerator toilet to replace both the Sealand opus magnum 3048 toilet and the vacumn generator in the basement. Would like to get it accomplished between Jan and July at the latest. Have funds in place for toilet and pumber labor where needed.
For anyone who has had the Opus up (removed), does the tile go quite far under the toilet? The Opus is a 4 bolt mount, and the replacement macerator toilet 2 bolt mount. I will need to research drilling the tile for the new mount holes without breaking tile if it extends under. Both toilets use 1/2" fresh water feed, 1.5" back discharge.
The replacement toilet will be a Dometic Masterflush 8740 white (bone not readily available), with flush handle, not remote flush panel. The foot print is VERY close in all dimensions to the exsisting. Have not picked the source yet.
12 gauge wiring is present from existing, and 20 amp breaker in basement serving the toilet/12 gauge.
As part of the basement mod, I just ordered: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CSN272RW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 The existing grommet is hardened from age.
I have not yet figured out the basement pumbling mod to remove the vacumn generator. Pretty sure I will hire a pumber for it.
Any opinions on wheter or not the Macerator and vac generator would work together, if I do toilet first then vac generator removal? (i think it would).
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: Michelle on December 27, 2024, 10:24:46 pm
Any opinions on whether or not the Macerator and vac generator would work together, if I do toilet first then vac generator removal? (i think it would).
I'd reach out to a marine service vendor with this question, especially someone like Environmental Marine. Dometic/Sealand is unlikely to respond given they are more B2B. I'm not sure if you can interface the vacuum generator's vacuum sense if a macerator toilet didn't provide it, plus the macerator toilet pushes from the toilet outlet and expects minimal resistance, where the vacuum generator pulls and needs to have a good seal in the toilet to pull vacuum against. The two would need to be coordinated or the plumbing in between would either contain pressurized waste OR the vacuum generator pump would run indefinitely.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: Michelle on December 27, 2024, 11:07:27 pm
Also, a residential plumber won't have a clue about VacuFlush or macerator toilets. You'll want an RV or marine tech familiar with both systems.
You might want to ask the conversion question on a Winnebago board. I recall from reading iRV2 that a fair number of WGO floor plans use VacuFlush toilet systems.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 01, 2025, 10:42:39 pm
Going ahead with this project (as long as the source I ordered the macerator toilet from today (weekend) actually does have it in stock). (they did).
Dometic MasterFlush 8700 Macerating Toilets for Boats and RVs (https://www.aquastardistributors.com/product/masterflush-8700-series/#tab-description)
The replacement toilet will be a Dometic Masterflush 8740 white (bone not available), with flush handle, not remote flush panel.
Pieces parts for plumbing in the bay: Amazon.com: Calvana 2-Pack 1-1/2" RV Rubber Grommet (12483), RV Water Tank... (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSN272RW/ref=nosim?tag=foreforums-20) (old one is hardened, will remove abs pipe for cut and gluing). Edit: I did not use this. Too hard working in mainly blocked 5" space above black tank. Used plumbers silicone grease on old original gasket.
90 degreee turn 1.5", with proper connector for the white sanitation hose in pic: 90 degree Bend Kit, 1.5" - Marine Sanitation & Supply (https://marinesan.com/90a-bend-kit-1-5/#bdf0/fullscreen/m=and&q=Dometic+307230311) One end transition cement to black ABS, other end into sanitation 1.5" hose . Edit: did not use the 90. Did use the smaller adapter hose conversion piece. Used in ABS 180 degree into the 1.5" sanitatation hose.
In the plumbing pic, the black ABS will be cut back, the 90 degree cemented (chemical welded) on, white hose attached. I can easily support it over the black tank at the transition to open space. Not enough room to work over the black tank to make transitions there, though I may give it a shot. Edit - used a abs 180 degree from home depot instead.
I will have toilet up and running first, with white bay sanitation hose into a bucket to make sure it works(water only) before I cut the piping and remove the vacum generator.
As mentioned above, there is 12 gauge wiring (hot and ground) at the current toilet with 20 amp resettable breaker. I will add an additional blade 20 amp fuse at the control box for new toilet. Already have 1/2 inch water supply and 1.5" discharge at current toilet.
Edit: the only PVC actually used was the conversion small piece to 1.5" OD sanitation hose connecter. The 90 PVC was not used. Found a Home depot ABS 180 to use.
More pics above.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: Michelle on March 02, 2025, 08:36:12 am
In the plumbing pic, the black ABS will be cut back, the 90 degree cemented (chemical welded) on, white hose attached.
Black is ABS, white is PVC. Waste plumbing is normally done with all ABS. There is a special adhesive (transition) that you can use to join them IF it's a non-pressure situation (the two cannot be chemically welded together, so it's a weaker joint). Not sure if the macerator pump in the toilet makes it a pressurized system, but I'd hate for you to find out after the fact that the use of PVC causes a problem.
In a regular building situation, it's against code to glue them. You have to use a mechanical (no hub) coupler, but again I don't know if this is okay under pressure if it's created because of the macerator.
Here's a good explanation: Connecting ABS To PVC Piping: What Do Home Inspectors Say? (https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/can-i-join-abs-to-pvc/)
I would strongly advise getting all ABS plumbing parts for this project.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 02, 2025, 10:59:07 am
The macerator pump used in Dometic toilets delivers a flow rate of 3.9 gallons per minute.
If calculation is correct, 1.5" pipe times 3.9 gpm = 18.38 psi. Gallons Per Minute to PSI Calculator Online (https://calculatorshub.net/measurement-tools/gallons-per-minute-to-psi-calculator/)
This one says 3.9 GPM with specific gravity sewer water of 1.4 (max) = 5.46 psi (but no pipe diameter mentioned). GPM To PSI Calculator – Convert Flow Rate Quickly – This to That Calculator (https://thistothatcalculator.com/gpm-to-psi-calculator/)
Oately ABS to PVC green transition cement is my plan (with PVC purple primer as well). These cements are intended for use in cementing transition joints between ABS and PVC materials in non-pressure applications only (25 psi (170 kPa) or less). Oatey® ABS To PVC Transition Green Cement | Oatey (https://www.oatey.com/products/oatey-abs-to-pvc-transition-green-cement-2074377300)
The issue is that connecting to the black 1.5" ABS is outside diameter apprx 2". The white sanitation hose is 1.5" inside diameter.
In the white pic below is a dometic product converting from ABS 2" (apprx) outside diameter to slightly under 1.5 inch outside diameter for the 1.5" ID hose to slip over. The product pictured is white and my assumption is that means PVC.
Once the green Oatey cement is dried, I "could" add a layer of JB weld around the abs to pvc transition. Edit: I had JB weld on hand so reinforced the outer connection of the ABS to PVC connection. Doubt it was needed, but 3 minute job.
From article linked: The ABS to PVC connections with purple primer were as strong as the PVC to PVC connections with purple primer, if not stronger.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: turbojack on March 02, 2025, 08:31:21 pm
They do have them. When I had my toilet apart I replaced them after 9 years since I had the toilet apart.
In this model they label it a check valve. One single 1.5" duckbill is used. Dometic MasterFlush 385311620 check valve (duckbill valve) (https://ardemco.com/rv-marine-toilets-parts/masterflush-toilets-parts/masterflush-toilets/dometic-masterflush-385311620-check-valve-duckbill-valve/)
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: Carol Savournin on March 03, 2025, 09:25:21 am
Ahhh. The Turbo Turd 3000. I remember it well! Actually, it gave us very few issues. But it would always be my preference to have a direct drop situation. NOTHING kills a good time faster than having the commode go sideways!
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 04, 2025, 07:16:54 am
I'll post before, prep, and after photos.
Control box will go in hamper behind toilet Toilet should arrive Thursday. Ups Ground out of New York. I just ordered it this weekend.
Inside before pics
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 04, 2025, 07:30:52 am
Picked up a couple extra feet of 12 gauge stranded red and green wire (hot and ground) in case needed from existing wiring to control box. edit - it was needed). Control box itself uses red hot, black ground. Also a short 20 amp fused 12 gauge wire. Already a 20 amp resettable breaker in basement, just a redundant fuse to the control box.
2 feet 1.5" sanitation hose flexible for inside, in case needed versus existing. Edit - it was needed, but 1' enough in my case. Existing sanitation hose does not bend easily, and might be too short. New toilet sanitation discharge will go from verticle to rear discharge under hamper. Edit: the delivery box included a 90 for this - but it did not work out as detailed later). Dometic/Sealand | 1 1/2" MaxFlex Hose (per Foot) | 306341116 - Environmental... (https://www.environmentalmarine.com/dometic-sealand-1-1-2-maxflex-hose-per-foot-306341116/)
Existing toilet 4 bolt to floor, new 2 bolt to floor. Drill bits tile: Amazon.com: KURSTOL Masonry Diamond Drill Bit - 10pcs 1/4"-1/2" Concrete... (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJDXS53G?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title)
Clamps for sanitation hose, basement and inside: Amazon.com: Roadformer 1.5" Worm Gear Hose Clamp - SAE 24 Size, Full... (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086MDTDNR?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1)
As fulltimers we want the least possible downtime for this change. I'd rather have leftover / un-uneeded parts than downtime. We are in a small town with an smaller sized Ace hardware.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 04, 2025, 07:20:20 pm
Before project photos, basement.
Saw here in our Escapees co-op park I used to cut the ABS pipe.
Limited height (apprx 5") with lots of obstructions (hoses, pipes etc) in basement where removing old ABS pipe and inserting new pipe. (bottom pic)
Approx 19" of abs pipe and 1.5" sanitation hose in the limited height part of basement above the black tank (to left) and grey tank (to right) (pic 2)
You can just see the sanitation hose behind the white wire tie, and the drop into blank tank is behiind the first drop, back where I put the yellow foam for location. (pic 4)
Better pic of sanitation hose start postion (with clamp on it), and drop into black tank behind that (where yellow foam is). (pic 3)
Pic of ABS and sanitation hose leaving above tank area into more open space. (pic 5)
This is the rest of the abs piping. sanitation hose, and vacum geterator. All will be removed that is in this pic. (pic 6_)
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 04, 2025, 07:36:52 pm
The old plumbing in post immediately above is what concerned me most about doing this project. I spent a bunch of hours figuring the solution, planning, and getting all materials in advance so no dead ends on install day. Only a small hardware store here.
Next pic will be "most" of the plumbing solution to replace everything in the post just above.
The drop pipe into black tank is not inserted into the grommet. 1/4" will be exposed when fully inserted.
The open end of the abs 180 degree turn will have the fitting to adapt to 1.5" inch ID sanitation hose.
The middle part of bottom pic is the adapter to glue into the ABS. Purple primer on the white part, then green transition cement on both is the plan for now to glue the adapter.
The 180 will be on top of grey tank to left of "wall" in pic 5 above. May put a foam pad under it.
"Likely" will have to cut the ABS mess in the open area to pull the rest out for limited space area.
Then just cutting the sanitation hose to correct length (I have a hose cutter up to 1 5/8)
edit: go 14" on straight pipe in pic not 12"
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 04, 2025, 08:18:42 pm
Install day plan: Bleach mix through toilet into plumbing and vacum generator.
Turn off water to toilet (outside bay)
Service mode toilet to let vac generator suck everything out and push as much as possible into black tank
Power off to entire vacuflush system (toilet/vac generator), then pull power connector in basement off vac generator
Pull old toilet out, clean all around, run wiring to masterflush status sensor around the corner and up to where vacuflush display panel is now. Edit: no status display with flush handle version of masterflush - and not needed.
Install control box in hamper (location already chosen), run cables / wiring out rear discharge hole in wood
Use provided template for new toilet exact postion (did 'nt use, had to adapt offest). Drill new mount holes
The existing 1/2" NPT water supply line is plenty long to reuse (used new hose that came with masterflush)
Plan the new discharge hose and mount to toilet
Mount toilet
Outside remove white sanitation hose from vac generator, place into bucket
Test flush twice before cutting old ABS plumbing in basement (in case have to remount vac toilet to solve some problem)
Remove old basement abs, and install new ABS pipe/connect trimmed sanitation hose
Remove vac generator (10 minute job)
Lots of details and prior planning. Fulltimers, want it all done in one day with few issues along the way. I decided NOT to hire help. New toilet and old approx 68 ppounds each to get in and out stairs will be fun.
One more "just in case" part ordered. Not 100% sure of the the other one. Dometic/Sealand | Custom Hose Adapter | 385320017 - Environmental Marine (https://www.environmentalmarine.com/dometic-sealand-custom-hose-adapter-385320017/)
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: steve on March 04, 2025, 08:24:06 pm
Looking good ... thanks for all the pictures and updates!
When you pull the old toilet (in case you never have), the zip ties in the floor mounting holes were OEM. They were there when I removed the toilet to change the lower seal and one of the linkages. In fact I may have added a couple of more to get the base to cinch down, no one wants a wobbly base :D
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 05, 2025, 07:09:06 am
One function we will lose is full tank toilet shut down system.
The vacuflush has a full tank sensor that stops the toilet from flushing. In seven years plus, we have only hit that full tank shutoff 2 to 3 times when boondocking or in parks with electric and water but no sewer drop.
Dometic sells a optional full tank sensor system for the Master Flush macerator. We will not get it. No access to top of tank to add it to black tank, hassle running wiring, and some people have had issues with false system shutdown and clipped the wires.
I had added See Level Garnet tank `monitoring in the past, one display in basement by dump valves, one inside coach.
I will replace one of the two monitors with blue tooth capable Garnet BTP-709. Same size display, just some wiring change right at monitor, so easy change. Introducing the All-New 709-BTP7 – Garnet Instruments (https://www.garnetinstruments.com/introducing-the-all-new-709-btp7/)
BTP-709: Available for both iOS and Android devices, the app enables users to access real-time tank levels, set customizable alerts for when tanks are too high.
We only use fresh, grey, black, and battery functions. We will just ignore the alt and water pump switch on the new monitor. We will set alerts via blue tooth app for fresh, black and grey tank levels.
Existing monitor to replace:
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 05, 2025, 05:50:31 pm
For anyone in the future doing this conversion, these two 1.5 hose adapters (1.5" OD for the hose end) are exactly the same.
If using all ABS except for the hose adapter, buy the single adapter instead of the 90 degree and 2 hose adapters.
90 and two adapters: 90 degree Bend Kit, 1.5" - Marine Sanitation & Supply (https://marinesan.com/90a-bend-kit-1-5/#bdf0/fullscreen/m=and&q=Dometic+307230311) Single hose adapter: Dometic/Sealand | Custom Hose Adapter | 385320017 - Environmental Marine (https://www.environmentalmarine.com/dometic-sealand-custom-hose-adapter-385320017/)
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 06, 2025, 11:04:14 pm
Pic 1" control box and wiring harness(s)
Pic 2: back of master flush after I changed discharge from bottom eject to rear eject Edit: had to change back to bottom discharge, details in later post
Pic 3: in the box were fittings for bottom discharge, rear discharge, and 1"/1.5" santitation hose connections. Pic includes the "duck bills" (one included and set for bottom discharge as delivered).
Same exact duck bill as used in Vacuflush. I have 4 on hand which were for future maint on the vacuflush, so I have 5 total. We are set for many years.
Pic 4: I "thought" a status display would be included for the masterflush to replace the vacuflush staus display pictured.
Not included in box - optional seperate order item. Not required since we chose the flush handle version and did not do the tank full seperate purchase.
I will blank out the vacuflush status display in the next week.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 07, 2025, 07:02:24 am
To change from bottom discharge to rear discharge takes 2 adjustable water pump pliers (joint pliers).
The duckbill sits between these 2 white 1.5" fittings pointing down.
Unlike the vacuflush, anything passing through the duckbill has been liquefied by the macerator, so blockages extremely unlikely.
Edit: due to location of the discharge connection on the Foretravel, leave it bottom discharge, buy a 90 Degree 1.5 inch hose connection. Then cut a few short sections of sanitation hose to use for hookup.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: steve on March 07, 2025, 10:26:21 am
Thanks for all the details and pictures ... quite the undertaking ^.^d With all the parts on hand the real fun part is next !
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 08, 2025, 10:03:53 am
Control box installed in hamper behind toilet:
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 08, 2025, 10:18:30 am
The 1.5 inch sanitation hose goes on some fittings easily, and some fittings with extreme difficulty. Dometic says to use dish soap --that works only on the easy fittings. A hair dryer and heating the end of the hose, then adding the dish soap makes it easier.
One unexpected issue: The vacuflush discharge hose connection is at floor level, and centered on the old toilet. The flushmaster discharge is up quite a few inches, and on right side of toilet as viewed from the front.
Santiation hose is not very flexible at all, especially short sections. I had to mount the new toilet offset to the left compared to old toilet. Note in pic 2 the old mount holes on right side compared to new. Required a 90 degree 1.5 inch fitting, plus 2 sections of sanitation hose even with the offset mounting.
For the 90 degree hose fitting, I ordered a inexpensive Amazon product. It worked, but I am surprised it is not seeping. I'm going to buy a different one to have on hand "just in case" as this size hose fitting is not in all hardware stores.
Not expensive, may or may not be better: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Apollo-1-1-2-in-Barb-Insert-Blue-Twister-Polypropylene-90-Degree-Elbow-Fitting-ABTE112/300814157#overlay
https://www.supplyhouse.com/Everflow-PXLN0112-NL-1-1-2-PEX-x-1-1-2-PEX-Brass-Elbow-Lead-Free Says for pex only, not sure of the weight on the toilet connections
Others that may or may not work: Amazon.com: Universal Aluminum Radiator Hose Connector | 90 Degree Elbow |... (https://www.amazon.com/JEGS-511176-Radiator-Hose-Connector/dp/B07HBBSTQS) Amazon.com: Yoebor Stainless Steel 304 Sanitary Hose Barb 90 Degree Elbow... (https://www.amazon.com/Yoebor-Stainless-Sanitary-Degree-Fitting/dp/B0BX98HQQF/ref=sr_1_3?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.1-44Dh3EsbK06dXJJyJAWTek7k5mMNGokrSzOMnenyyNhtrJGh1O_6pvxBfPuxkU9OFidqVreja4nm7nLg37gdPVXy_gU5-7dMaToAzPUsN8r5NLcmpCAxQYmFJRNz5L12SWkR7rEkmfo6kL_YHTDC_PV3E9z05UCxLAF7PYsJA3yWytQCQYazsJuWcwsKR46bcQUp_FL4BcXQySoZIdjXeZk7J46LpvTImh1syc1O4.7JqFsXiGokLFVsXLbZFiYskNP2W9mfFH-6XEvpGZ6KY&dib_tag=se&keywords=304%2BStainless%2BSteel%2BSanitary%2BHose%2BBarb%2BFitting%2B1-1%2F2%22%2BBarbed%2Bx%2B1-1%2F2%22%2BBarbed%2B90%2BDegree%2BElbow&qid=1741452184&sr=8-3&th=1)
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 08, 2025, 10:52:14 am
Looking good ... thanks for all the pictures and updates!
When you pull the old toilet (in case you never have), the zip ties in the floor mounting holes were OEM. They were there when I removed the toilet to change the lower seal and one of the linkages. In fact I may have added a couple of more to get the base to cinch down, no one wants a wobbly base :D
I had to add zip ties into the 2 new holes for new toilet to get solid connection.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: steve on March 08, 2025, 11:59:07 am
Interesting that the outlet is not centered, good to know. Wish they would list the min bend radii for the sanitation hose instead of just saying "flexible".
Glad to know the zip ties remain :D
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 08, 2025, 03:40:02 pm
In the basement.
Before/after Vac generator gone. New plumbing above the black and grey tanks.
On the right side, the new 180 degree return from toilet to black tank is braced top and bottom so it can't bounce or shift around.
On the left side, the drop into the black tank has a piece of yellow foam jammed above it so it can't shift upward out of the tank.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 08, 2025, 04:38:42 pm
New system is much quieter than the old toilet/vac generator.
Much less complex as will, with less to go wrong. Parts readily available, and if professional service needed more RV techs familiar with the masterflush/macerator toilets.
We are happy we did the change.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: rbark on March 08, 2025, 05:16:13 pm
I would do the same as what you did if I had your design but we have the "plop & drop system.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: wolfe10 on March 08, 2025, 05:18:08 pm
"Plop and drop" beats complex systems.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: steve on March 08, 2025, 06:22:57 pm
New system is much quieter than the old toilet/vac generator.
Admit it ... you are going to miss the Ka-chunka-Ka-chunka-Ka-chunka
Congrats on getting the job done, that was a lot of work!
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 09, 2025, 09:35:50 pm
The flushmaster is designed to add water by lifting the handle, and flush by pushing down. It was doing just the opposite.
Red wire is flush, black add water, white ground.
First pic is flush handle wiring before I swapped black and red wires, tightened the wire tie for the wires to stay connected, and improved the strain relief wire tie.
2nd pic is toilet flush handle now working as it should be. If you order a master flush check the wire locations before installing (I had to pull the toilet to fix it).
Links to parts photos: Dometic/Sealand | 8700 Series Flush Handle Assembly | 385311704 - Environment... (https://www.environmentalmarine.com/dometic-sealand-8700-series-flush-handle-assembly-385311704/#gallery) Dometic/Sealand | Flush Handle Rocker Switch | 385311290 - Environmental Marine (https://www.environmentalmarine.com/dometic-sealand-flush-handle-rocker-switch-385311290/#gallery)
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 14, 2025, 04:39:28 pm
One function we will lose is full tank toilet shut down system.
The vacuflush has a full tank sensor that stops the toilet from flushing. In seven years plus, we have only hit that full tank shutoff 2 to 3 times when boondocking or in parks with electric and water but no sewer drop.
Dometic sells a optional full tank sensor system for the Master Flush macerator. We will not get it. No access to top of tank to add it to black tank, hassle running wiring, and some people have had issues with false system shutdown and clipped the wires.
I had added See Level Garnet tank `monitoring in the past, one display in basement by dump valves, one inside coach.
I will replace one of the two monitors with blue tooth capable Garnet BTP-709. Same size display, just some wiring change right at monitor, so easy change. Introducing the All-New 709-BTP7 – Garnet Instruments (https://www.garnetinstruments.com/introducing-the-all-new-709-btp7/)
BTP-709: Available for both iOS and Android devices, the app enables users to access real-time tank levels, set customizable alerts for when tanks are too high.
We only use fresh, grey, black, and battery functions. We will just ignore the alt and water pump switch on the new monitor. We will set alerts via blue tooth app for fresh, black and grey tank levels.
Existing monitor to replace:
Update on the BTP-709 bluetooth seelevel tank monitor/display It works great to see tank levels anywhere in or near the coach and to send notifications to the cell phone at specific user selected low/high tank levels.
As a one and only monitor it works great. If you currently have 2 tank displays (I have one inside and one in sewer bay by dump valves) it creates a issue.
The bluetooth one polls the tanks continuously, one after the other. As it polls the tanks, the legacy display montor will err and/opn as that specific tank you push the button for is polled.
Solution one: on the legacy display keep hitting the button for that tank until not being polled - it will display normally. Solution two: ignore the legacy display and just use the cell phone app.
If installing seelevel tank monitoring from scratch, only one display is needed, mounted either inside or outside. Just get the bluetooth monitor solution and use cell phone app from anywhere in/near the coach.
Title: Re: Macerator toilet system to replace entire vacuflush system
Post by: AC7880 on March 18, 2025, 05:06:31 pm
Last step. Wallplates.com product. Covers holes from fan control and vacuflush display.