First Time using Head after boat was previously winterized.

[RonDMC]

Hi,

I recently purchased a 1990 Carver Santego 3067 and love the boat, it's spacious and runs great, but i'm still learning alot about owning a larger boat and the owners guide only provides basic information. My boat was previously winterized and i'm in the process of getting it ready for spring. Please forgive me for any stupid questions now or in the future

It's currently moored in a covered location and hooked up to shore power and the water tank is full. The head is a Raritan toilet with an open and close valve and a pump. I just started to periodically use (30 days). I previously opened the valve before using the head and would pump after each use. Recently after using, the head wouldn't empty after pumping and would fill after each pump. I assumed the holding tank was full and arranged for a pump out. The gentleman told me the holding tank was empty. Is there another valve that I need to open before using the head, if so where is it located, or could one the hoses be plugged or possibly an issue with the toilet directly? FYI only #1 in the toilet, not #2.

Just trying to see what steps I should take, any assistance would be most appreciative.

Have a wonderful day.

[Viper]

Welcome aboard Ron. No such thing as stupid questions here. The only ones that are stupid are the ones that don't get asked!

When you say filling after each pump, is it filling with sea water or the #1 you just attempted to pump out? If it's the #1, it's your joker/check valve that needs to be replaced. It's a normal maintenance/wear item. It will be at the base of the pump where the hose attaches to if I'm thinking of the same model. I'm thinking manual pump with a handle? Do you know the model number?

Is it something like this?:
https://www.google.ca/search?q=raritan+toilet&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi4yvb7lO3SAhVK_IMKHbIvB8AQ_AUIBigB&biw=1549&bih=748#imgrc=OuPfW-FB3VvYoM:&spf=208

[tomschauer]

It may be possible that the prior owner was using the overboard discharge and the thru hull valve was closed for winter. Thus nowhere for the waste to go.
I am sure with some pictures someone here can and will help you, but if you gotta go..... maybe you just want to ask someone at the marina to help you out.