bilge pumps & float switches ?

[McGillicuddy]

Enlarge the hole and change the hose and flange to get your maximum flow. And use quality smoothed walled hose rather than that cheap corrugated stuff they call bilge hose. Personally, I prefer the Rules with the integrated float switches. Some don't like Rule but I have not had one fail. 1200 - 1500 gph should be just fine. Also prefer the Three-way switch with auto/off/manual. Some prefer the self-cycling pumps. I don't.

Here are a couple of good threads on the subject. I'm sure there are many more.

http://www.classicseacraft.com/commu...ilge+flow+test
http://www.classicseacraft.com/commu...ilge+flow+test

[sidelock]

The existing 1 1/8" hose appears to be auto heater hose, reddish brown in color , smooth walled & in like new condition .I replaced the original on/off switch with a on/off/mometary switch & connected a buzzer to sound when the switch is turned on. I'm kind of hesitant about auto pumps or float switches for fear that they may get stuck in the on position & drain the battery or even worst, get stuck closed & not be able to activate the pump.

[uncleboo]

Originally Posted by McGillicuddy

Enlarge the hole and change the hose and flange to get your maximum flow. And use quality smoothed walled hose rather than that cheap corrugated stuff they call bilge hose.

I second the motion. Mine had a thru hull that was 1/2" I.D. and, get this, a 90 degree elbow inside the hull with the corrugated hose!! I put a 1" straight thru hull fitting and upped the hose to the clear smooth 1" hose. With a 1500 gph pump, it empties the bilge in HALF the time! Less battery drain + more water out of the bilge faster = 1 happy guy!

[sidelock]

My 3/4 " thru hull is 90 degree also but I will take a good look & see if a 1 1/8" straight fitting will clear the protruding threaded tip of the stern lift eye inside the transom compartment & the legs/bolts of the new GEM lift-up cleats I just installed .
Having said that there is a pretty good strong flow out of the existing set up with the 3/4" 90 degree but I would imagine it will be a lot better with straight 1 1/8" fittings.