Bilge pump suggestions??

[blipship]

I need install a new bilge pump in the back of my boat and wanted to know if it is better to wire it to a toggle panel(which I already have), or buy one that activates with a float and wire it straight to the battery.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Bilge pump suggestions??

You can buy one that does both. It has 3 wires on it. One to ground, one to the switched power(Manual Use) and one to the battery for auto power. Most automatic pumps have this option. Check out West Marine or Cabalas. Rule pump is what I have.<br /><br /> West Marine

 

[mattttt25]

Re: Bilge pump suggestions??

yup, rick is right. it's nice to have the auto feature as well as manual.

 

[DJ]

Re: Bilge pump suggestions??

Always go the next size larger. If you currently have a 500 gph, get a 750 or 1000.<br /><br />Also, smooth (inside) hoses will move water more efficiently than the corrugated hoses.

 

[blipship]

Re: Bilge pump suggestions??

Thanks for the tips...I also did not think about going with something larger...thats a good suggestion...hopefully will never need it though. Also, does the pump have to be mounted down or can you just sit it in the bottom of the well?

 

[DJ]

Re: Bilge pump suggestions??

blipship,<br /><br />It should be mounted. The last thing you want to happen is have it upside down when you need it most.

 

[blipship]

Re: Bilge pump suggestions??

thanks djohns19! Any suggestions on mounting or should I just screw into bottom of Fiberglass well. I am just hesitant to put a whole in the bottom of the well...seems real close to bottom of boat...maybe it would be better to mount on side of well??

 

[DJ]

Re: Bilge pump suggestions??

blipship,<br /><br />Typically they can be mounted from the side. You might want to check that before you buy.<br /><br />Side mounting is my preferred way.

 

[blipship]

Re: Bilge pump suggestions??

thanks for the help! you ve helped me a couple of times now. I love this forum!!

 

[JasonJ]

Re: Bilge pump suggestions??

Blipship, make sure you screw your bilge pump to a piece of wood or better yet something composite, then EPOXY that piece to the side of the bilge well. This way you don't have any screw holes that could wick water into the wood. The epoxy will hold for longer than you own the boat, and if not, epoxy it again. Good Luck....

 

[Kesh]

Re: Bilge pump suggestions??

Hey blipship,<br /><br />I would like to point out some useful links regarding bilge pumps. Maybe of help. I used the information to completely upgrade my bilge pump system (new wiring, new larger pump, new floats and a switch featuring auto and manual position). I would like to emphasize the auto feature. It can save your boat, even at the dock.<br /><br />First link: http://www.marinesurvey.com/yacht/bilge_pumps.htm <br /><br />Second link:<br /> http://www.uaf.edu/seagrant/boatkeeper/bilge-pumps.pdf <br /><br />Finally, this is a pic of the wiring diagram that came with my new Rule pump:<br /><br /> http://mipagina.cantv.net/kesh/rule/rule auto-manual diagram.jpg