Bilge Pump

[Boilers2000]

Replaced bilge pump this winter, but wont seem to pump water now. I would think there is enough water since its about an inch deep, but nothing comes out. I can hear the pump running. Is that too little of water to pump out? Any ways to test?

 

[alldodge]

The float should be a tad higher then the pump. If the float switch is lower then the pump it will run and not shut off

 

[gm280]

Could be it need a little bit more water to start the flow. It really depends on your setup and where it is positioned. Post some pictures and we can offer better suggestions, but it could simply be that it need more water...

 

[Boilers2000]

It's not an auto bilge...I have to manual turn it on and off. I will dry to find a pic

 

[QBhoy]

Most bilge pumps are sat offset from the lowest centre of the inner hull I’m afraid. All else being well with your plumbing, they often loose their prime at about the level you describe and stop pumping. I can never get all the water out my bilge. Never had a boat that did. Take it it isn’t running reverse rotation ?

 

[alldodge]

It's not an auto bilge...I have to manual turn it on and off. I will dry to find a pic

OK
Then the pump will never be able to get all the water out

 

[Old Ironmaker]

I always have an inch or so of water that the auto bilge won't pump out. I have to pull the plug and have the boat raised at the bow to drain it all. I think yours is working as designed.

 

[JimS123]

Switch the wires. It may be running in reverse. The bottom of the pump should have a screen. It should pump until the water level is below the screen.

 

[Old Ironmaker]

Put some water in the bottom, not much just enough to cover the pump. Does it pump it out? If not reverse the leads like Jim suggested above.

 

[QBhoy]

Agree with above. I mentioned it earlier too. Possible it’s running backwards.

 

[Boilers2000]

I will try to put some more water in it to see if I can get it to prime. It is possible it's running backwards, but I was pretty conscientious when rewiring, but anything is possible. I would say water is about half way up the screen or maybe a little less. Are the bilge wires marked as positive and negative?

Thanks for the trouble shooting ideas.

 

[JimS123]

I will try to put some more water in it to see if I can get it to prime. It is possible it's running backwards, but I was pretty conscientious when rewiring, but anything is possible. I would say water is about half way up the screen or maybe a little less. Are the bilge wires marked as positive and negative?

Thanks for the trouble shooting ideas.

They are self priming. Most are installed with a detachable bracket. Simply unsnap it and drop it into a bucket. That's how I test mine. You sure don't want to fill the boat up with water!

If you mean bilge PUMP wires, yes they are color coded. You should have received an installation manual with it. If not, they are free online. Another point is that you should not run the wires in the bilge - they should be routed up so that they don't get submerged.

 

[Boilers2000]

Unfortunately the bilge is right under the oil pan and I dont think there is clearance to remove the pump with the engine in. I will double check the wiring, and download the instructions if I didnt save them. My connections are above the water line, so if they get wet I think I have a bigger problem. I will try to see if I cant get it out. Maybe I will get lucky.

Thanks again for the advice. 100% of the projects I have successfully completed is due to this forum!