Bilge pump

[SkaterRace]

So my boat does not have a bilge pump in it (it is a 1977) so I am using one I had around from another boat. My question is do I use a thru hull fitting on the transom and pump it out that way or is there a better way of doing it? I have ordered a plastic fitting and am hoping to use that if it is the correct way of doing it.

 

[spoilsofwar]

The outlet shouldn't be on the transom, or else a following swell such as when you come off plane will push water into it. Port or starboard side of the hull, above the waterline is where you want it. Generally, just a bit below the rub rail. Although if your boat is very deep, you may want it lower so the pump doesn't have to lift the water so high.

 

[Captain Caveman]

As spoilsofwar said, through the side of the hull. Although I suppose if you put a hinged flap on an opening through the transom that would work too. Either way, you get the fun of running a hole saw through the hull or transom. Make sure that you do a good job of sealing around the thru-hull fitting.

 

[fhhuber]

Sometimes the pump outlets are above the rub rail.

Main idea is it should be above common wave action or have the hose loop upward as high as possible before going down to the pump. (sometimes both...)

 

[SkaterRace]

As spoilsofwar said, through the side of the hull. Although I suppose if you put a hinged flap on an opening through the transom that would work too. Either way, you get the fun of running a hole saw through the hull or transom. Make sure that you do a good job of sealing around the thru-hull fitting.

Thanks for the sealing advice, I will be using 3M 5200 to seal it and that should be good enough on both sides.

 

[SkaterRace]

Okay so the general agreement is the side of the hull. Guess I will go have a look to see where exactly I can put it. Still not looking forward to making a hole in the hull. :faint2:

 

[fhhuber]

Check the inside of where you want it... sometimes there's sprayed flotation foam to deal with. Try to avoid that. It makes access to tightening the hose clamps difficult.

 

[gm280]

SkaterRace, I've owned boats with the bilge outlets installed in the transom. Just any place that is higher then the waterline and it will pump out any water that does get into the hull. Not a huge issue with coming off a plane, the outlet hole isn't that big. So if you don't want to drill through the side of your boat, use the transom towards the top and it will work perfectly. Not rocket surgery. :high5:

 

[Alumarine]

If you go out the side I like to have it on the starboard side so I can see how much water is coming out while driving.