2006-06-14 01:25:04 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Boats & Boating
It would be helpful to know what sort of boat you are talking about.
Generally bilge pumps in smaller boats are activated by means of a float/ level switch. Most of these switches aren't sensitive enough to pick up 1/4 of an inch of fluid in the bilge. I would say that 1/4 of an inch isn't enough to worry about, but i would be climbing in the boat and testing that the switch works.
Find the switch and lift the float. If it doesn't activate the pump before about an inch and a half, check that your pump is getting power, check to see if the switch is adjustable, check for power at the switch, remove power from the switch and check for continuity through the switch at maximum and minimum extension.
If no luck with finding the fault get a qualified professional to sort it out for you.
2006-06-14 01:43:22 · answer #1 · answered by Matt 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Actually, since it is not legal to discharge bilge water containing oil or fuel (the engine compartment bilge usually contains this) the bilge pump may not have a float switch. It is supposed to be pumped far offshore in the ocean or syphoned into a container for disposal. The reason the bilge may only have a manual switch is in the case of a massive fuel or oil leak, where you don't want to start pumping that out into the lake or marina. Most likely, everything is just fine. All bilges will have some water in them, either from the drive shaft, through hull fittings, or from rain-water.
There is a product like a diaper that you can get at West Marine to absorbe the oil from the water in the engine compartment bilge. They work great. Just throw a couple in and they suck it all up. Then dispose of them.
2006-06-15 22:09:29 · answer #2 · answered by jack b 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's probably fine. The bilge pump probably won't get every bit of water out. It probably has a float or sensor of some sort somewhere located in the lowest point of the bilge. When the sensor detects water, it starts the pump. When most of the water is pumped out, the pump stops. A little bit of water will always remain - it trickled down afterwards, or the water was sloshed away from the pump's intake hose, or something. I wouldn't worry about it.
2006-06-14 08:32:32 · answer #3 · answered by Ralfcoder 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If it is rain water it is probably OK. Look to find where the pump sum is located. Seen if it has clearance or is in a well. Also see if the float is at it's lowest level (switch off). While there, lift the float and make sure the pump starts.
If all checks out, your probably ok. Batteries run down when not in use. Best provide a charge if needed. There are also sun driven units that will maintain the battery if you want to install one. But, too many goodies draw thieves.
2006-06-14 08:36:42 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Dependi's on where the bilge pump is located in the compartment and what size boat you have.But, to me it sounds fine.If you turn it on, and you can hear it run,I'd say your ok.
2006-06-14 15:23:36 · answer #5 · answered by scott m 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
this shouldn't be a problem.....keep an eye on it , it if gets any deeper then have someone look at it!
2006-06-14 09:02:04 · answer #6 · answered by Italiano 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋