bilge pumps

[Boyd]

Hi Mike:

I recently installed all new bilge pumps and used one that had an internal electronic switch. I think it was a Rule. During the testing phase it became apparent that the pump would not shut itself off after drawing down the water to the "slurp" level. It simply continued to run forever. The literature with it said that the electronic controls sensed the pump load and shut down when the load fell indicating no water left. Whatever, it didnt work. I returned it to West and got a pump with a traditional float type switch internal. Problem solved.

Boyd
s/v Tern
CD30 MkII
Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

[Mike C]

before embarking on a recent short cruise, I installed a new master bilge pump with built in auto-on switches. One quiet evening while running north with a soft south wind. I was watching Orion Belt come up on the horizon. I heard the bilge pump running, listening for a while and it did not stop. after the immediate panic, I checked and found the auto switch was stuck ON and would not turn the pump OFF. Putting my spare in its place I checked it out when shore wise. The auto switch would sometimes stick on and sometimes stick in the off position. I returned the pump to West Marine, I replaced the Rule with the same and the second has the same problem. I have now talked to three others with the same problem with the same pump.

I have a high bilge water alarm but until this incidence I trusted the bilge pump to work.

[rtbates]

If that's one of the rule submersible, certrifugal pumps, you've only seen the tip of the ice berg. THEY ARE CRAP!!!! Why do I say this?

Because they are totally unreliable. Any debris from hair to dust will prevent the pump from, well, pumping. I've taken enough of them apart to know.

I replace mine with a Jabsco diagraphm pump loacate in a cocpit locker. The bilge contains the pickup (with one way valve), and a solid state sensor that knows the difference between water and fuel oil. The pump will shut off once all the water's gone and all that's left is the fuel oil that was floating on top. Could save you a big fine.

Good luck