Automatic Fire Extinguisher

[Tombarth1]

I have a Targa 34 - 2004
It looks like the automatic Fire extinguisher in the engine bay is original and has never been serviced.
Any advice please
Thanks

[silvercloud]

It is probably better to just buy a new one as they are not expensive.
I am just about to replace mine as well on my Turbo 36 for FE36 gas automatic ones.

Dry powder extinguishers work well and do the job but you will spend WEEKS getting rid of the powder as it get everywhere.

They are not very expensive at around £90 and no clean up if they do go off.

I use www.simplyextinguishers.co.uk and have found them a very good and reliable company.

I have no connection with them other than beeing a happy customer.

[Barry C]

If you look on e Bay for fire ext supplies . I would go for clean air which was the old Halon now defunct . With dry powder apart from the mess the acid content stains any metal it comes in contact with I know from experience workshop fire . I have 4 in my engine room what price fire safety !!! . All fire ext should have pressure gauges on .

Barry

[Electron1kid]

Check if you have an automatic Fire Extinguisher next to the Bow Thruster. On my T40, I have also one next to it

[tomibbotson]

Do you have a seafire system - on your helm dashboard do you have a round panel with some light and a toggle switch or buttons? If you disconnect the fire extinguisher you’ll have to override the system to start engines.
You may also have a fire extinguisher hidden away by the fuel tank, remove the seat above the fuel cocks (the whole thing frame not just the cushion) and feel down the side of the tank.

[ms]

If you talk to a fire specialist, I believe you will be advised to consider fire suppression according to the volume of your engine compartment and have ONE extinguisher capable of dealing with that whole volume. Multiple extinguishers only provide full protection if they discharge simultaneously. If they go off one at a time according to location and severity of a fire they may not offer full profection capability.
As previously mentioned I would suggest gas not powder for engine space. A modern halon replacement gas is very appropriate. You are probably aware that use of Halon is now illegal.

[Tombarth1]

Very many thanks for your advice
Happy Boating
Tom

[admin]

I believe there's a place in Southampton that will service and test them. Replacing the engine bay one plus the bow thruster and fuel tank extinguishers will cost the thick end of £2k.