Kidde Fire Supression system

[littlebookworm]

I decided to check the tank on the fire supression system on our 24' Chapparal before I splashed the boat. When we bought the boat two years ago, the surveyer could not check the system because it's buried behind the engine. I had thought I had a Fireboy system and was surprised to find that it's a Kidde FyreWatch FW150 system. The tank is empty; the gas (FE241) must have leaked out over the years. When I checked online, I found the Kidde stopped supporting this system in 2004. Before that, they would exchange an empty tank for a full one at a set fee. Does anyone know a fire extinguisher service company which would be able to service and recharge the Kidde tank? Thanks. Hy

 

[JohnC]

I have an older system on my boat also and looked into getting it checked and possibly recharged if necessary a couple years ago and was basically told if the system is the older style and 10+ years old it's time to buy a brand new one. My bottles still feel full so I didn't do it yet but it's on my list...

 

[littlebookworm]

I just got a quote on updating the system of almost $400; that will wait for now. Hy

 

[abalmuth]

Elite Action Fire
194 Depot Road, Huntington Sta, NY
(631) 673-9300

 

[HIGHLIFEII]

Hy,
No active fire system in the engine compartment, bottles empty, not a good way to run a boat, especially a gas pawered boat, just my opinion.
Andy

 

[littlebookworm]

I carry two portable fire extinguishers at all times. I do plan on replacing the on-board fire suppression system, but will have to wait until the tax return comes. In reality, this is the first boat that I've had that even had a built-in fire suppression system. I do find it annoying that the surveyer hadn't really checked the tank, though I realize how difficult that is to do. The indicator light on the dash was green because the system had never discharged through the head; it has leaked out through the seals. The tank guage was aimed downwards and was impossible to read or even photograph. If all things go well, I'll buy and install the new system before thes eason really gets underway. Hy