Bilge Pump

Anita Marie · Posted: Sun Nov 30, 2003 7:42 pm Post subject: Bilge Pump

I am about to install a bilge pump in the depression by the boat plug. I was wondering what brand and model of pump people are using, internal/external float, size, etc...?

Fred

Chuck S · Posted: Sun Nov 30, 2003 7:47 pm Post subject:

The little pump C-Dory installs there has worked well for us. I had the same pump in the engine room of our 29' sailboat and it kept the bilge there nice and dry with minimal electrical draw.

Ours really only runs when it rains, we rarely get water on board over the rails.

-- Chuck

TyBoo · Posted: Sun Nov 30, 2003 8:12 pm Post subject:

If you're after an automatic, and you're thinking about the Rule pump, be sure and get the Rule Platinum. They have a computerized memory that allows them to "learn" how often to cycle. The ones installed in some of the new CD's that the owners have found so annoying are not the Platinum model, but the next step down. Those seem to cycle on to test for water at predetermined intervals that are much too frequent. At least that's my take on it. The TyBoo22 had a Rule Platinum 500 gph pump that worked great for rainwater draining. It might go as long as four hours before checking for water, but if it found some, it would check again sooner. It always worked without bugging me.

If you're concerned about the boat sinking before a computerized or preset pump will come on, the only thing that will give you peace of mind is a float switch or other water detection means.

I also had a cheap (real cheap) manually switched pump in the rear sump that I used when washing down the deck. Neither of the pumps were adequate for swamping situations. Somebody on here said that a scared skipper with a bucket was unbeatable for that.