Bilge Pump (automatic or not)

[High Flyer]

Hi Guys
On our Maxum 18, is the Bilge Pump automatic, or only operated by the 'bilge pump' switch at the helm position ?
Regards: John

[shrew]

It's usually both. There is usually a ground and 2 hot leads on the bilge pump. The circuit is usually wired with a dedicated hot and a hot from the switch at the helm. The dedicated hot should go to a float switch, then from the float switch to the pump. some pumps have internal float switches.

Take a look at whether there are 2 wires or 3 wires going to the existing bilge pump location.

[mmwjr]

Typically the bilge pump is set up to work of both the helm switch for manual operation and a float switch for automatic operation.

[High Flyer]

Hi Guys
Thank you for your responses: just as I thought - it looks like my automatic (float operated) part of the bilge pump has packed in.
Obviously the original bilge pumps are not longer available, however over here (and I've fitted a Dory with one) 1100 gal per hour automatic bilge pumps for around the $15.00 price are good replacements.
Regards: John

[mmwjr]

I recommend the highest gph pump that will fit the hose. What the pump is rated for is not the actual performance due to resistance of the hose from bends and if corrugated.

[ESGWheel]

You should absolutely have both auto and manual features. I am surprised at the low cost, perhaps that is just for the float switch? If the float switch has failed suggest replace the entire unit with, as mmwjr said, the higher GPH that will fit the hose. If replacing the entire unit there are several auto features you can choose from. The classic float switch but it comes with the issue of (1) needing to be correctly installed and (2) debris or improperly stored items can keep it from working (holds the float down). The others I am familiar with are: a built in sensor that detects water level and those that ‘turn on’ periodically for a second or so and determines if there is a load on the motor (if yes, it means water in the bilge and keeps on pumping until the load goes back down). Both styes have a patristic electrical draw but the claim is it’s so minimal that its not an issue. Regardless of the direction get a reputable brand, a bilge pump is not the place to save some money.

[High Flyer]

I'm not sure this will work, a Bilge Pump listed on UK eBay but here goes:
eBay item number:226295059647
I've used this type previously on an open air (no cover) dory, and has always worked well, keeping spray and down pours of rain well under control ~

[ESGWheel]

This un-branded pump and based on the pictures uses an internal float switch. It’s a three wire so has both auto and manual features you need. That it is unbranded would cause me pause. While it probably made on the same manufacturing line of whatever the branded version they are copying, my justification for sticking with a branded version is that they have a brand to protect and thus apply a quality control to their products. That you have had good success with them in the past is a good sign. For me, I would not use an unbranded bilge pump as it is a critical safety item.