[spareparts]

several years ago there was an article in some boating magazine that tested bilge pumps and hoses like ya'll did. They pointed out that bilge pumps are rated at 14.5 volts(max rating) with no hose attached, The numbers ya'll gave are pretty good considering how the manufactures rate them. I have been using the black 1 1/8 smooth wall coil reinforced bilge hose. I find that heating the hose with a heat gun allows me to get the hose all the way up on the nipple, then clamping it while its still warm usually secures it and makes a leak proof connection, I have in the past had to put a little sealant on a couple when using old hose to help seal it. BTW, I have three 2500 gph pumps in my 20 ft boat. I have replaced way too many new pumps to rely on just one back up. A good experiment is to back your boat in with out the plug(don't take it off the trailer) and see if your pump can keep up with the water coming in that small hole, its very supprising.