Bilge pump sizing??

[JSGOLD]

While getting ready to rewire my old 16' Starcraft Supersport (76' deep-v) I have looked at replacing the old bilge pump. I have only had to use this once, to clear out rainwater, and it did OK, but old and very small. I want to get a Rule automatic pump, but am curious what the "proper" size is? I have limits on the hose, at 3/4". Would a 500 or a 750GPH unit do? The boat is used in small to medium lakes. Even our larger lakes here are long and narrow so even if I hit something shore is never that far away.

 

[ken52]

Re: Bilge pump sizing??

I'm using a Rule 800 in a Wellcraft 180. I would think your about the correct size for your situation. I'm kinda in the same process with my boat too. I fish and swim in the Gulf and will probably step up to a larger pump like the Rule 1000. Of course I'll have to replace my thru hull to accept the 1 1/8" hose. Everything I've read usually states put in as big as possible because water fills a boat fast. Good luck.

 

[JSGOLD]

Re: Bilge pump sizing??

Thanks! I hope to possibly add a second one later perhaps....right now trying to improve on what I have. With the wiring mess I had the one I have did not work the day before our first big outing of the year, and the pump is a cheap wally world one that works but not what I feel comfortable with. I am looking at one with automatic feature to keep from havng to deal with a float switch.

 

[ChampionShip]

Re: Bilge pump sizing??

I have a pair of 750's in my 22' Cruisers. I frequently run upwards of 8 miles into Lake Michigan so I don't think I overkilled it. Plus with little bits of fishing line falling into the bilge from time to time, it eases my mind to know that if one fails, I have one on standby.