Amanda Knapp
The placement of a boat's drain plug is a matter of some debate. Some boaters argue that the type of drain plug determines whether it should be installed on the inside or outside of the boat, with threaded plugs installed from the outside and expanding types installed from the inside. However, others claim that it doesn't matter as long as the plug is installed before launch.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Installation | Threaded plugs are installed from the outside, expanding types are installed from the inside |
| Plug type | T-screw expanding types are better for the outside, expanding rubber types with flip handles are meant to be installed on the inside |
| Advantages of installing from the outside | Eliminates the possibility for something to hang on the plug's T-handle, which may damage or pull out the plug |
| Disadvantages of installing from the outside | If the plug comes out, it is likely to sink to the bottom and be lost forever |
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What You'll Learn
Threaded plugs are installed from the outside
The argument for installing a drain plug inside the boat is that it is easier to access. However, this means that the fuel tank has to be moved every time you need to access it. One user on a forum noted that they use a remote control valve on their drain, which they can tell at a glance is open or closed by looking at the handle.
The argument for installing a drain plug on the outside is that it eliminates the possibility for something to hang on the plug’s T-handle, which may damage or pull out the plug. If a drain plug installed from the inside comes out, it is likely to sink to the bottom and be lost forever.
One user on a forum noted that they use a screw/bolt-in type of drain plug, which obviously has to be installed from the outside. They always kept spares with them. Another user noted that they have a lever plug on the inside, but that even those quick-release plugs can/should be screwed tight to expand the plug. Tight enough so it shouldn't pull out on its own.
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Expanding plugs are installed from the inside
The T-screw expanding type are better for the outside. This is because there is a possibility for something to hang on the plug's T-handle, which may damage or pull out the plug. If a drain plug installed from the outside comes out, it is likely to sink to the bottom and be lost forever.
If you have access to the plug in the boat and room, it goes inside. However, some people prefer to install it from the outside to avoid having to move the fuel tank every time they need to access it.
It is important to remember to install the drain plug before launching your boat.
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The T-screw expanding type is better for the outside
There are two types of boat drain plugs: threaded plugs and expanding plugs. Threaded plugs are installed from the outside, while expanding plugs are installed from the inside. The T-screw expanding type is better for the outside as there is too much opportunity for an expanding type to get pulled out if you install it from the inside. The T-screw expanding type is designed to be installed on the outside, and its T-handle makes it less likely to be damaged or pulled out.
Additionally, if a drain plug installed from the inside is pulled out, it is likely to sink to the bottom and be lost forever. This is not an issue with drain plugs installed from the outside.
It is important to note that some boaters prefer to install their drain plugs on the inside, as it is more accessible and can be tightened to expand the plug. However, this argument is countered by the fact that water pressure is supposed to hold the plug in place, and any debris or ski ropes caught under it could cause real trouble.
Ultimately, as long as you remember to install your drain plug before launching your boat, it doesn't matter too much whether you install it from the inside or the outside.
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The T-handle can be damaged or pulled out
It is important to consider the type of drain plug when deciding where to install it. Threaded plugs, for example, are typically installed from the outside, while expanding types are installed from the inside. The expanding rubber type with a flip handle, in particular, is meant to be installed on the inside only. This is because there is too much opportunity for it to get pulled out if installed on the outside.
Additionally, a drain plug installed from the outside is likely to sink to the bottom and be lost forever if it comes out. This is something to consider when deciding where to install the drain plug.
Overall, it is recommended to install the drain plug on the inside of the boat to reduce the risk of damage or the plug being pulled out. However, it is important to note that access to the drain plug may be more difficult from the inside, and water pressure is supposed to hold it in place.
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Screw-in, flip-down types are not recommended
The T-screw expanding type is better for the outside, while the expanding rubber type with the flip handle is meant to be installed on the inside. This is because there is too much opportunity for the expanding type to get pulled out if installed from the outside.
The argument for installing a drain plug on the inside of a boat is that water pressure will hold it in place. However, this can be dangerous if something gets caught under it, such as trash in the water or a ski rope.
Some boat owners prefer to use a remote-control valve on their drain, which allows them to see at a glance if the valve is open or closed.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the type of plug you have. Threaded plugs and T-screw expanding plugs should be installed from the outside. Expanding rubber plugs with a flip handle should be installed from the inside.
Installing a boat drain plug from the inside means that there is less opportunity for something to get caught on the plug and damage or pull it out.
Installing a boat drain plug from the outside means that you don't have to move the fuel tank to access it.
