Ercoa Pontoon boat how to drain tube??

[Drewzr14]

My starboard pontoon tube/log started filling with water. There isn't a drain plug but there are two inlets ontop of the tube near the center (which is why I assume there is a front and back compartment).

The inlets have a red plastic cap on them. Inside these inlets is a smaller hole large enough for a twig to fit in but too small for a hose (at least the hoses I had on-hand which were pretty small). I can blow into the inlet without feeling resistance but that air is forced right back in my face as soon as I quit.

Does anyone know the purpose of these inlets?? I was hoping to siphon the water out of these inlets and then rig up air to them to find the leak(s)

I have attached a picture for your reference..

Any help would be "GREATLY" appreciated..

Best Regards
Andy

 

[Scott Danforth]

They are vents to equalize pressure so your toon logs do not fatigue crack. The red plug is so you don't sink if you get a leak on the bottom

Drop a 1/4" hose down the vent port. I usually use a bit of lead wrapped around the tube. Get the tube to the bottom of the log. Then using an air hose, a blow-off nozzle and your hand to seal, apply a bit of pressure.

The pressure will push the water up and out the hose

Once that is done, find the leaks in your toon logs. Most likely where the M- brackets are welded. And get them repaired

 

[Drewzr14]

Thank you for the quick reply..
I backed the pontoon up a steep grade.. I can hear the water peculating to the front of the log.. There is a pinhole leak where water is coming out at the front bottom of the log. There must be an additional leak as I find it hard to believe that much water would come in from such a small hole ??

The red vent caps appear to have a 1/8" inch hole in the center of the cap (well whats left of them.. very deteriorated). I assume you would not want to cap them completely as that would defeat the purpose of them venting the tube.

I will try your ideas,.. thank you
Andy