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Sinking
Feeling
That sinking feeling…
Bilge pumps. The chances are strong that your particular
boat is equipped at least one. Most are common electric
centrifugal pumps and are operated from your boats battery
systems. Generally it is activated by the water level rising
to a pre-determined point or by engaging a switch on the
dashboard.
Too often when inspecting a vessel for condition or accident
we find the bilge pumps inoperable, wired incorrectly or in
generally poor condition. Keep in mind that when the pump
motor runs you don’t necessarily know it is actually pumping
water. The tiny metal impeller shafts are prone to breaking
from corrosion. In other cases, tie straps, fishing line and
other debris, may easily foul the pump. Some builders, Sea
Ray for example, are notorious for putting check valves in
the hose: These valves will occasionally stick or become
fouled.
During
an inspection I look for general condition of the pump,
hose, clamps and wiring connections. I try to determine that
the discharge hose forms a loop above the hull fitting or is
at least 12 inches above the water line to avoid a siphon
effect. I check to make sure that the automatic function
operates with battery switch OFF and that the unit is
properly fuse protected.
It is an important safety precaution to regularly inspect
your own bilge pumps. Many boat owners don’t think to
replace or service them until they have a failure.
Maintenance tips: Even the most expensive pumps are under
warrantee for only five years. Most have only one year. I
would suggest new pumps and floats every two years, three
years at the most.
Check the hose at these intervals for brittleness and the
clamps for corrosion. Clean the bilges of debris and clear
any check valves fitted.
The
bilge pump auto circuit and the stereo memory are the only
two conductors on board which are allowed by ABYC to be
energized with battery switch off. Make sure the correct
size fuse is installed at the source of power. Example: Rule
1500gph 12volt: 9 amp, Rule 2000gph 12 volt: 15 amp etc. The
pump manufacturers websites will all have installation
instructions and fuse requirements.
Electronic automatic switches such as Water Witch and
Johnson have become much more reliable in recent years and
are worthy of consideration when the original equipment is
due for replacement.
Don’t let gas prices keep you high and dry. There is plenty
of inshore and near shore fun to be had. Dust off those old
water skis, picnic baskets and light tackle and go boating.
You
may email Capt. Campbell with questions, comments and ideas
for topics you would like to see him address at: Baitkiller@comcast.net
or 239-389-9769 Capt. John Campbell AMS is an accredited
Marine Surveyor associated with the Society of Accredited
Marine Surveyors, The American Boat and Yacht Council and
the Collier County Marine Trades organization.
Capt. Campbell is available to all local groups and civic
organizations for speaking engagements on a wide variety of
Marine related topics.
Office:
239-389-9769
Mobile:
239-248-7460
CONTACT US
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